Symptom Index for Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma
Author Information
Author(s): Eton David T, Cella David, Bacik Jennifer, Motzer Robert J
Primary Institution: Center on Outcomes, Research and Education, Evanston Northwestern Healthcare
Hypothesis
Can a brief symptom index effectively measure patient-reported outcomes in advanced renal cell carcinoma?
Conclusion
The 8-item index of patient-reported symptoms of renal cell carcinoma is a reliable and valid measure for clinical use.
Supporting Evidence
- The index had excellent internal reliability at all three time points.
- Baseline scores could discriminate patients across Karnofsky performance status and risk group categories.
- Mean index scores declined over time, indicating treatment toxicity.
Takeaway
This study created a simple list of questions to help doctors understand how patients with advanced kidney cancer feel, making it easier to track their symptoms.
Methodology
Secondary data analyses on patient-reported outcomes from a Phase III clinical trial.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to lack of patient input in index development.
Limitations
The index development relied solely on physician input, and some toxicities from newer treatments were not included.
Participant Demographics
70% male; mean age = 58.1 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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