Effect of dexamethasone on quality of life in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a prospective observational study
2008

Impact of Dexamethasone on Quality of Life in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia

Sample size: 41 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): de Vries Machteld AG, van Litsenburg Raphaƫle RL, Huisman Jaap, Grootenhuis Martha A, Versluys A Birgitta, Kaspers Gert Jan L, Gemke Reinoud JBJ

Primary Institution: VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Hypothesis

Quality of life is more impaired during periods on dexamethasone than during periods without dexamethasone.

Conclusion

Dexamethasone was associated with decreased quality of life, particularly affecting pain, cognitive functioning, emotion/behaviour, and physical functioning.

Supporting Evidence

  • Quality of life was significantly lower than population norms.
  • QoL was more impaired during periods on dexamethasone.
  • Specific domains like pain and cognitive functioning showed significant deterioration.

Takeaway

Kids with leukemia feel worse when they take a medicine called dexamethasone, especially in how they feel pain and think.

Methodology

A multicentre prospective cohort study assessing quality of life using generic and disease-specific questionnaires at two time points during treatment.

Potential Biases

Parental counselling on side effects may have influenced responses.

Limitations

Small number of participants at T1 and potential bias due to parental reporting.

Participant Demographics

41 children, mean age 5.6 years, 56% male.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-7525-6-103

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication