Abstract Details

Title Feasibility of an Electronic Patient Reported Steroid Toxicity Monitoring Program in Patients with Malignant Gliomas

Topic Neuro-oncology

Presentation(s) P12 - Poster Session 12 (5:30 PM-6:30 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 4-002

Background Corticosteroids are frequently used for management of cerebral edema in MG, with side effects resulting from prolonged use or high dosage. Corticosteroid use is common and may negatively impact quality of life (QOL) and survival in MG.

Objective To determine the feasibility of a longitudinal, electronic, patient-reported survey of steroid toxicity in patients with malignant glioma (MG).

Design/Methods We prospectively enrolled patients with MG receiving neuro-oncologic care at the University of Rochester with or without their caregivers on an IRB-approved study. Subjects received 12 weekly electronic questionnaires through a secure health portal focused on symptoms of corticosteroid toxicities, dosing and functional status. Weekly toxicity scores were calculated based on the number of reported toxicities (0-17). Completed questionnaires were reviewed by a care team member to inform clinical management. Corticosteroid dosing adjustments were documented in the medical record. Feasibility was defined as an overall questionnaire completion rate of 70%.

Results 12 patient/caregiver pairs were enrolled (12 patients, including 10 with caregivers). Median patient age was 59. Patient tumors were glioblastoma (83%), anaplastic astrocytoma (8%) and anaplastic oligodendroglioma (8%). Phase of treatment was concurrent (58%), adjuvant (33%) and recurrence (8%). Median dexamethasone does at study start and conclusion were 4mg/day and 2.5mg/day. Median weekly toxicity score was 4/17 (range: 0-14). The most common toxicity was sleep disturbance which was reported by 92% of participants. Weight gain, muscle weakness and bruising were reported by 75% of participants. Overall questionnaire completion rate was 79%. Ten percent of questionnaires resulted in clinically significant symptoms requiring follow-up from a provider.

Conclusions Patients with MG experience frequent corticosteroid toxicities. Electronic corticosteroid toxicity monitoring is feasible in patients with MG and may lead to changes in management. Future studies are needed to assess utility of this tool and impact on QOL and survival.

Authors/Disclosures
Andrea C. Wasilewski, MD (Givens Brain Tumor Center) PRESENTER	Dr. Wasilewski has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving as a Consultant for Novocure.
Jared Macher	Mr. Macher has nothing to disclose.