Evaluation of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Perception of Loneliness in Children Who Underwent Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation.

BACKGROUND

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety in pediatric survivors, but studies on loneliness in these patients remain limited.

AIM: This study aims to explore how PTSD relates to perceptions of loneliness, depression, and anxiety disorders among pediatric HSCT survivors.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 60 patients who underwent HSCT, 60 patients with various hematological/oncological conditions who did not undergo HSCT, and 65 controls. The Child Post-Traumatic Stress Reaction Index, the UCLA Loneliness Scale, and the Revised Children's Anxiety and Depression Scale were used to assess PTSD, perceptions of loneliness, and depression and anxiety disorders, respectively.

RESULTS

Both HSCT (+) and HSCT (-) groups demonstrated significantly higher PTSD, depression, and anxiety scores compared with the control group. Perceived loneliness was significantly higher in the HSCT (+) group compared with the HSCT (-) and control groups. In addition, a significant positive correlation was observed between PTSD scores and loneliness scores in HSCT (+) and HSCT (-) groups.

CONCLUSION

Staying in an isolation room during HSCT may be a contributing factor to loneliness and PTSD in pediatric survivors. Early recognition and treatment of PTSD symptoms and addressing loneliness are crucial for effective care during and after HSCT.