Ferida maligna
: prevalência e qualidade de vida em oncologia

  • Vera Cristina Esteves Brazão (Student)

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

Background. Advances in science and technology have contributed to the redefinition of cancer as a chronic disease and as a consequence changes are required in the approach to patient care in Oncology. It is estimated that 5% of cancer patients develop malignant wounds. Methodology. This cross-sectional study aims not only to provide data on the prevalence of malignant wounds but also characterise and assess their influence on the quality of life of cancer patients. In view of that, nineteen adult patients of a Portuguese Institute of Oncology (accidental non-probability sample) were recruited from ten treatment services (inpatient and outpatient care). Data were collected using the questionnaire EORTC QLQ-C30 v. 3.0 and structured interviews took place in October 2013 during a three-day period. Results. The typology of malignant tumours was identified by the following organs/systems: Skin; Head and Neck; Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Digestive System; Gynaecological; Breast and Soft Tissue. The prevalence of malignant wounds among patients was 4.9%, with an average of 1.6 wounds per patient; the majority of them were seen in the context of recurrent cancer and metastatic spread. In most cases, there was a low symptom response to the wounds. The psychosocial negative effect of the wound was predominantly associated with patient’s life activities, body image and individual patient’s capacity for autonomy and independence; while the positive effect was more related to the wound bandaging process itself, thus promoting comfort and a sense of safety. The life quality of the population under study (final score) was 78% on average. Statistically significant and positive correlations were establish with age, Karnofsky Performance Status, duration of local wound care and patient functioning (physical, role, cognitive, social); and negatives with fatigue, pain, appetite loss and constipation. Conclusion. The complexity and uniqueness of the multidimensional meaning of cancer and malignant wound, determine the impact on the quality of life for patients/families; thus requiring a holistic, realistic and assertive interdisciplinary action.
Date of Award2015
Original languagePortuguese
Awarding Institution
  • Universidade Católica Portuguesa
SupervisorFernando Mena Martins (Supervisor) & Manuel Luís Capelas (Supervisor)

Keywords

  • Cancer patients
  • Malignant fungating wound
  • Symptoms
  • Psychosocial
  • Quality of life

Designation

  • Mestrado em Feridas e Viabilidade Tecidular

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