Utilization of Palliative Radiation in Pediatric Oncology Patients During the End-of-Life (EOL).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Suffering at the end-of-life (EOL) can impact the perception of a "good death" and ultimately affect bereavement for families of children with cancer. Palliative radiation (pXRT) is a tool that can address pain, mitigate suffering and improve quality of life.

Methods

A retrospective medical record review of pediatric oncology patients who died over an 11-year period was completed. Descriptive analysis and nonparametric tests to compare groups were used.

Results

2202 total deaths occurred during the study period; 167 patients met study criteria, reflecting a 7.6% incidence of pXRT use at the EOL. Most patients were white (68%) and male (59%), with a median age of 9 years. Solid tumors were most common (52%), followed by CNS tumors (38%), and leukemia (10%).

SUBMITTER: Cuviello A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11534509 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature