[Occurrence and diagnosis of psychiatric conditions in palliative medicine]

(Forekomst og diagnostikk av psykiatriske tilstander i palliativ medisin.)

Full Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aims of the study are to describe the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in palliative care and how to diagnose these disorders. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Literature search including cancer patients, palliative care, psychiatric conditions and diagnostics. RESULTS: Neuropsychiatric conditions such as delirium, dementia and amnestic disorder are prevalent (> 20%), especially in the terminal phase. Anxiety and depressive symptoms are also common and may be caused by the patients' medical condition. Probably less than 10% have anxiety or depressive disorders. However, methodological limitations make comparisons across studies difficult. The interview is the main basis for assessment of mental status. Doctor-centered interviewing techniques are needed in the assessment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Emotional symptoms are best explored by open-ended questions and facilitating techniques. Psychiatric somatic symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue or insomnia are not valid diagnostic criteria. Selfreport questionnaires and short-form screening instruments are best suited for monitoring the course of the disorders, but must be adapted for this specific population. INTERPRETATION: Neuropsychiatric conditions are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in palliative care. Good interviewing skills are the main element in the diagnostic workup.

Author information

Author/s: Loge, J H (JH); Kaasa, S (S);

Affiliation: Institutt for medisinske atferdsfag, Universitetet i Oslo, Postboks 1111 Blindern 0317 Oslo. j.h.loge(-atsign-)medisin.uio.no

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: English Abstract; Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Review

Journal: Tidsskrift for den Norske lægeforening : tidsskrift for praktisk medicin, ny række (Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen), published in Norway. (Language: nor)

Reference: 2000-Nov; vol 120 (issue 27) : pp 3275-9

Dates: Created 2001/01/16; Completed 2001/03/15; Revised 2008/07/16;

PMID: 11187168, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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