[How do doctors communicate results of genomic testing and its prognostic impact on uveal melanoma patients? Results of a qualitative study].

INTRODUCTION

Uveal melanomas (UM) are rare intraocular tumours. A third of these patients develop metastases, mostly hepatic ones. Patients can be given prognosis estimations thanks to clinical and genomic criteria. Nonetheless, in the context of UM, the transmission of information pinpoints numerous ethical concerns for physicians, due to the complex nature of its therapeutic care.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the modalities of physician-patient communication, particularly regarding the transmission of prognostic information to patients, and to understand physicians' experience.

METHOD: Semi-directive interviews have been conducted with two oncologists and four onco-ophthalmologists specialised in treating UM treatment. Interviews were transcribed, anonymised and we performed a thematical analysis.

RESULTS

After completion of the interviews' analysis, five main themes have emerged: the lack of questioning from patients, the communication about the recurrence risk, the uncertainty and the role of hope and the emotional impact on physicians.

DISCUSSION: The communication of prognosis information highlights many ethical stakes. In the context of UM, physicians emphasize the importance of providing information tailored to each patient's needs, at the right time, while maintaining hope and avoiding providing overly direct information to everyone.