Prognosis and Survival Estimates in Palliative Therapy

Prognosis in Palliative Therapy - a Prospective Study on Survival Prognostication in Advanced Stage Cancer Patients

The accuracy of clinical survival estimates is tested in comparison to objective prognostic scores.

• At presentation a clinical survival estimate is obtained in each patient.
• Survival is also estimated using published prognostic scores in palliative care.
• Prognostic scores based on blood samples, general symptoms, complaints, and performance status are calculated and validated, respectively
• Each patient completes questionnaires on psychological distress
• Survival estimates are limited to 6 months.
• Each patient is followed for at least 6 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• oncologic disease confirmed
• incurable locally advanced or metastatic disease
• palliative treatment intended
• age > 18
• able to understand the study protocol
• able to complete the forms with assistance if necessary

Exclusion Criteria:

• therapy with curative intent
• regular clinical follow-up visit without disease progression
• ongoing therapy