Article Text
Abstract
Hand-foot syndrome (HFS) emerges as one of the common dermatological side effects associated with anticancer medications such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), capecitabine and docetaxel. This condition can be notably debilitating, exerting a predominant impact on the clinical, functional and psychosocial domains of health. With prevalence rates of HFS, ranging from 43% to 71%, there exists an unmet need among palliative care physicians to comprehend this syndrome in addressing physical, psychological dimensions and its integrated management within healthcare. This understanding enables them to adopt diverse approaches aimed at preserving the quality of life for patients, by enhancing the overall healthcare experience. Our primary objective is to underscore the imperative for the high-quality integration of palliative care with respect to HFS in contemporary oncology practices. We aim to achieve this by providing evidence-based insights to enhance patient outcomes.
The intent of this study: (1) The article delves into the range of symptoms linked to HFS, and stresses the necessity of a holistic strategy and the difference that a palliative physician can contribute during cancer treatment—in picking up certain intricate aspects of patient care and addressing them. (2) The article also highlights the comprehensive approach through the incorporation of quality-of-life assessments, with the goal of enhancing patient outcomes, overall care experience within an integrated healthcare framework.
- Quality of life
- Symptoms and symptom management
- Psychological care
- Education and training
- Skin
- Advance Care Planning
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Footnotes
Contributors DSV, RT and NP: substantial contributions to the conception or design of the work; acquisition, analysis, interpretation of data for the work; PKK, RT and NP: drafting the work, revising; PS, BKR and SR: final approval of the version to be published.
Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Competing interests None declared.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; internally peer reviewed.
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