Published online Mar 15, 2024. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i3.810
Peer-review started: September 26, 2023
First decision: December 5, 2023
Revised: December 22, 2023
Accepted: February 7, 2024
Article in press: February 7, 2024
Published online: March 15, 2024
Processing time: 167 Days and 21.1 Hours
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks as the fifth most common cancer globally and is a major contributor to cancer-related mortality. Surgical treatment remains pivotal, but late-stage diagnosis limits its applicability. Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is an essential intervention for unresectable HCC, yet its impact on patient well-being requires further exploration.
Despite the significance of TAE in HCC management, the associated symptom distress and fatigue remain inadequately understood. A comprehensive investigation of symptom distress and fatigue following TAE is essential to enhance patient care and outcomes.
To assess symptom distress and fatigue in liver cancer patients undergoing TAE. To identify factors influencing post-TAE fatigue. To contribute evidence-based insights for personalized symptom management strategies.
We used a cross-sectional design and purposive sampling to enroll liver cancer patients who underwent TAE. We used questionnaires to collect data on symptom distress and fatigue. We analyzed the data using statistical methods to reveal correlations and predictors.
TAE significantly reduced symptom distress and fatigue levels post-treatment. Commonly reported symptoms included pain, fatigue, insomnia, fever and abdominal discomfort. Marital status, family support, physical function, age, and symptom distress were identified as predictors of post-TAE fatigue.
TAE plays a crucial role in managing unresectable HCC, with notable benefits in symptom distress and fatigue reduction. Personalized symptom management strategies should be tailored to individual patient profiles. Patient education is vital to prepare them for post-TAE symptoms and optimize their wellbeing.
Future studies should focus on long-term follow-up to evaluate the sustained effects of TAE on symptom distress and fatigue. Exploring interventions to further mitigate symptom distress and fatigue in post-TAE patients. Continual research will enhance the understanding and management of symptom-related issues in liver cancer patients, improving their overall quality of life.