| [ Summary ] |
Dyspnea is one of the most frequent and refractory symptoms in cancer patients. Dyspnea is a subjective symptom defined as "an uncomfortable sensation of breathing". It should be distinguished from respiratory failure, which is defined as hypoxia with PaO2<=60 torr. Causes of dyspnea in cancer patients are classified as (1) direct effect of the tumor, (2) effect of therapy, and (3) others. It is important to know that dyspnea is also related to psychological distress, such as anxiety. Assessment of dyspnea should be focused on (1) severity, (2) characteristics, and (3) impact on quality of life. The important points of management of dyspnea are described in this article according to the curriculum developed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology; (1) Treat the underlying causes (egantibiotics for pneumonia, blood transfusion for anemia), (2) administer oxygen, (3) morphine, (4) anxiolytics, and (5) non-pharmacological interventions, such as respiratory rehabilitation and relaxation. Since dyspnea in cancer patients has multidimensional aspects, an interdisciplinary team approach for symptom management is important. |