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Latifa K, Ibrahim Al Ali M, Areen H, Thomas L, Sabahat U. Hydrocortisone Therapy in Post-Stroke Management of Persistent Hiccups: A Case Report. Cureus 2024; 16:e56800. [PMID: 38654797 PMCID: PMC11036028 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hiccups, also known as singultus, are involuntary spasms of the diaphragm muscle followed by laryngeal closure involving a reflex arc. It is a relatively common phenomenon, usually transient and self-limiting. However, in medical settings, it could be much more serious and is often a sign of underlying pathology. When hiccups last for over 48 hours, they are referred to as persistent hiccups, and if they persist for more than a month, they are known as intractable hiccups. Current pharmacologic treatment of persistent or intractable hiccups mainly includes antidopaminergic drugs, which specifically antagonize the dopamine D2 receptor. Here, we present the case of a 54-year-old gentleman who was admitted under our care with a posterior circulation stroke specifically affecting the medulla. He was symptomatic with severe, persistent hiccups interfering with sleep and oral intake and unresponsive to all standard medications. After nearly two weeks, a trial of hydrocortisone was given, to which he responded dramatically. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only case of hiccups that has been successfully treated with hydrocortisone. The remarkable improvement seen in our patient when treated with hydrocortisone suggests hydrocortisone could be a useful agent in post-stroke hiccups that are unresponsive to traditional treatment for hiccups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hafsah Areen
- Internal Medicine, Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Science, Dubai, ARE
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2
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Nagata T, Watanabe A, Momo K, Kashiwabara Y, Saeki M, Oto Y, Uchikura T, Kobayashi K, Toshima H, Shimada K, Tanaka K. Dexamethasone to prednisolone rotation relieved hiccups in colorectal cancer patient continuing teleworking during anticancer therapy. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e7367. [PMID: 37351354 PMCID: PMC10282110 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.7367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a case of chemotherapy-induced hiccups that were alleviated by steroid rotation. Hiccups are often overlooked, but they have an impact on the patient's quality of life. In the COVID-19 era, web-based teleworking has become an important tool, hiccups during a teleconference should be noted as a concern for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Nagata
- Department of PharmacyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
| | - Ayako Watanabe
- Department of PharmacyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
| | - Kenji Momo
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
| | - Yuka Kashiwabara
- Department of PharmacyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
| | - Misa Saeki
- Department of PharmacyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
| | - Yuji Oto
- Department of PharmacyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
| | - Takeshi Uchikura
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
| | - Koji Kobayashi
- Department of OncologyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
| | - Hirokazu Toshima
- Department of OncologyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
| | - Ken Shimada
- Department of OncologyShowa University Koto Toyosu HospitalKoto‐kuTokyoJapan
| | - Katsumi Tanaka
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of PharmacyShowa UniversityShinagawa‐kuJapan
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Yennurajalingam S, Bruera E. Do Patients Benefit from a Trial of Corticosteroids at the End of Life? Curr Treat Options Oncol 2022; 23:796-805. [PMID: 35362799 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-022-00977-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Patients with advanced cancer in the last 6 months of their lives have a higher frequency of distressing and debilitating physical and psychosocial symptoms such as cancer pain, cancer-related fatigue (CRF), anorexia, shortness of breath, poor sleep, anxiety, and depression. Often these symptoms significantly impact the patients' quality of life, and therefore require prompt assessment and effective treatment. There are specific treatments for certain distressing cancer-related symptoms (e.g., opioids for pain), but for the other symptoms such as CRF, anorexia-cachexia, and shortness of breath, there are limited or no evidence-based treatments. Also, in the management of cancer pain in this population, many patients are refractory to opioids. Hence, corticosteroids are one of the most common adjuvant medications prescribed for the management of this distressing symptom. However, there is limited evidence in regard to the effectiveness of corticosteroids in the improvement of the symptoms, side-effect profile, most optimal duration of use, dose, type of steroid, and most recently, the use with immunotherapy in advanced cancer patients at the end of life. These factors significantly limit the use of this important medication in terminally ill cancer patients. Further research is therefore critical to provide the optimal prescription of corticosteroids in this highly distressed population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Yennurajalingam
- Department of Palliative Care Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd. #1414, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd. #1414, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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Bîrluţiu V, Şofariu CR. Association of hiccup and SARS-CoV-2 infection with the administration of dexamethasone: a case report. Germs 2022; 12:107-111. [PMID: 35601950 PMCID: PMC9113683 DOI: 10.18683/germs.2022.1312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Among the less common symptoms associated with the SARS-CoV-2 infection the attention is drawn by a persistent hiccup that was recently quoted in the literature. CASE REPORT We present the case of a 46-year-old Caucasian male patient hospitalized in the Infectious Diseases Clinic of the Academic Emergency Hospital Sibiu, Romania with laboratory confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 infection with a positive result of real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay from nasopharyngeal swabs, that during the disease course developed persistent hiccup associated with the administration of cortisone therapy, dexamethasone. A decision to stop the treatment with cortisone preparations was made, with the disappearance of the hiccup after 36 hours. CONCLUSIONS From our experience, other cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection that we managed during these months of the pandemic, with mild or severe forms of the disease, showed hiccup under treatment with dexamethasone, an event also described in other medical conditions under the same treatment and improved at its cessation or when replaced by methylprednisolone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Bîrluţiu
- Assoc. Prof., MD, PhD, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Faculty of Medicine Sibiu, Academic Emergency Hospital Sibiu - Infectious Diseases Clinic, Str. Lucian Blaga, Nr. 2A, Sibiu, 550169, Romania
| | - Ciprian Radu Şofariu
- MD, PhD, Children’s Neurological Diseases Research Centre and Telemedicine (CEFORATEN) of the Paediatric Hospital Sibiu, Str. Pompeiu Onofreiu, Nr. 2-4, Sibiu, 550166, Romania
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Karampoor S, Afrashteh F, Laali A. Persistent hiccups after treatment of COVID-19 with dexamethasone: A case report. Respir Med Case Rep 2021; 34:101515. [PMID: 34522605 PMCID: PMC8431841 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2021.101515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hiccups are involuntary and spasmodic contractions of the diaphragm, and multiple etiological factors have been suggested to be involved. Medications, such as dexamethasone, as well as some diseases, such as pneumonia, can cause persistent (>48 h) hiccups. Here, we report a 58-years-old male who had a fever, myalgia, cough, and ground-glass view in the chest computed tomography, and his PCR test for Covid-19 was positive. During the treatment course, persistent hiccups were developed after taking dexamethasone and lasted for six days. All cardiac and neurologic examinations were performed, and all of them were normal. After evaluating all of the possible underlying causes, dexamethasone was replaced by prednisolone. Upon a change in his treatment regimen, hiccups began to stop, and his symptoms also disappeared. Hiccups may occur in patients who have pneumonia and other infectious diseases. Dexamethasone can also stimulate hiccups along with infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Karampoor
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Afrashteh
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Laali
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Firoozgar Medical and Educational Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding author.
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Ergen M, Arikan F, Fırat Çetin R. Hiccups in Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:e85-e90. [PMID: 33587996 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hiccups are a symptom in cancer patients but it's less researched. OBJECTIVES The aimed to determine of prevalence of hiccups and treatment approach used in hiccup management in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy for nursing care. METHODS This study used a descriptive cross-sectional design with self-reported questionnaires and was conducted from November 2018-May 2019 in Turkey. For collection of the data, a Patient Information Form (sociodemographic and disease characteristics), and a Hiccups Evaluation Form were used for the patients. RESULTS Hiccups were observed in 37 (23%) of the 160 patients who met the criteria for inclusion in the study. The great majority of the patients suffering from hiccups were male (65.9%) and the type of cancer in the majority of these patients was gastrointestinal cancer (54.1%). It was determined that the duration of hiccups in 83.8% of patients observed with hiccups was between 0 and 48 hours, that the average severity of their hiccups was 3.81 ± 2.25 (0-10), and that hiccups in 59.5% of these patients was of low severity. It was found that only 10.8% of patients suffering from hiccups used pharmacological methods for relief and that 27% used nonpharmacological methods. CONCLUSION The results of the study showed that over one-fifth of cancer patients suffered from hiccups. This situation reveals that hiccups are an important symptom that needs to be carefully emphasised in oncology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mevlüde Ergen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Memorial Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Fatma Arikan
- Faculty of Nursing, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
| | - Rüya Fırat Çetin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Memorial Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
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Nishijima K, Kizawa Y, Yamauchi T, Odagiri T, Ito T, Kaneishi K, Shimizu K, Morita T, Mori M. Prevalence and associated factors of orphan symptoms in advanced cancer patients: a multicenter observational study. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:5537-5547. [PMID: 33725175 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06144-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence of myoclonus, sweating, pruritus, hiccup, and vesical and rectal tenesmus, and to explore associated factors in patients with advanced cancer. METHODS This multicenter prospective cohort study was conducted in 23 inpatient hospices/palliative care units in Japan from January to December 2017. The prevalence and characteristics of each symptom were assessed on admission and in the 3 days before death. We selected factors that might influence the occurrence of each symptom and investigated the association. RESULTS A total of 1896 patients were enrolled. The prevalence of orphan symptoms rose from admission to the 3 days before death: myoclonus 1.3 to 5.3% (95% CI 0.9-1.9%/4.3-6.5%), sweating 1.8 to 4.1% (95% CI 1.3-2.6%/3.1-5.1%), hiccup 1.1 to 1.8% (95% CI 0.7-1.7%/1.2-2.6%), and tenesmus 0.7 to 0.9% (0.4-1.2%/0.5-1.5%). Prevalence of pruritus fell from 3.5 to 2.5% (95% CI 2.7-4.4%/1.8-3.4%). Sweating, pruritus, and hiccups persisted throughout the day in nearly half of the patients. Myoclonus was significantly associated with brain tumors, sweating with opioids and antipsychotics, pruritus with liver and biliary tract cancer, cholestasis and severe diabetes, hiccup with male gender, digestive tract obstruction, severe diabetes, and renal failure. Vesical tenesmus was associated with urinary cancer, antipsychotics, and anticholinergics and rectal tenesmus with pelvic cavity cancer. CONCLUSION We found that orphan symptoms occurred in 0.5-5.0% of patients, increased over time except for pruritus, and persisted in half of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoru Nishijima
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2, Kusunokicho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0017, Japan.
| | - Yoshiyuki Kizawa
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2, Kusunokicho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0017, Japan
| | | | - Takuya Odagiri
- Department of Palliative Care, Komaki City Hospital, Komaki, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ito
- Department of Palliative Care, Japanese Red Cross Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keisuke Kaneishi
- Department of Palliative Care Unit, JCHO Tokyo Shinjuku Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiji Shimizu
- Department of Palliative Care Internal Medicine, Osaka General Hospital of West Japan Railway Company, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Morita
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Masanori Mori
- Palliative Care Team, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
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Piraccini E, Dima V, Maitan S. Persistent hiccups after cervical facet dexamethasone injections. Minerva Anestesiol 2019; 85:1246-1247. [PMID: 31238643 DOI: 10.23736/s0375-9393.19.13802-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Piraccini
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery, G.B. Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Forlì-Cesena, Italy -
| | - Vinicio Dima
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery, G.B. Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Forlì-Cesena, Italy
| | - Stefano Maitan
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery, G.B. Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, Forlì, Forlì-Cesena, Italy
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9
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Sugandhavesa N, Sawaddiruk P, Bunmaprasert T, Pattanakuhar S, Chattipakorn SC, Chattipakorn N. Persistent Severe Hiccups After Dexamethasone Intravenous Administration. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2019; 20:628-630. [PMID: 31036799 PMCID: PMC6509965 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.915282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Male, 49 Final Diagnosis: Hiccups Symptoms: Hiccups Medication: Dexamethasone Clinical Procedure: Drug termination Specialty: General and Internal Medicine
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Affiliation(s)
- Nantawit Sugandhavesa
- Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Passakorn Sawaddiruk
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Torphong Bunmaprasert
- Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sintip Pattanakuhar
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Siriporn C Chattipakorn
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Hosokawa H, Shimoda H, Ishii T. Effectiveness of Steroid Rotation in a Japanese Patient with Hiccups Caused by Dexamethasone: a Case Report. YAKUGAKU ZASSHI 2019; 139:647-650. [DOI: 10.1248/yakushi.18-00192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Kim J, Oh H, Seo W. Factors associated with dexamethasone-induced hiccups in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: A case control study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2018; 37:23-28. [PMID: 30473047 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Revised: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to identify demographic, health- and cancer-related, and physiological factors associated with dexamethasone-induced intractable hiccups in cancer patients. METHOD This study adopted a retrospective case control design. The study subjects were 168 cancer patients admitted to a university hospital for chemotherapy between October 2011 and December 2016: 58 patients who experienced intractable hiccups while on dexamethasone (cases) and 110 matched patients who received dexamethasone but did not experience hiccups (controls). Data were collected from most recent medical records and included demographic, health- and cancer-related, and physiological factors. RESULTS Our findings demonstrated that the development of dexamethasone-induced hiccups was significantly associated with a male gender, a young age, overweight/obesity, the use of alkylating anticancer agents (particularly as the first anticancer drug), high levels of hemoglobin, serum creatinine, uric acid, and albumin, and an elevated body temperature. CONCLUSIONS Oncology nurses should be aware of influencing factors of dexamethasone-induced hiccups in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Our findings may provide evidence to design oncology nursing strategies that help maximize the benefits of chemotherapy in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- JeongSeon Kim
- Department of Nursing, Inha University, Inha University Hospital, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - HyunSoo Oh
- Department of Nursing, Inha University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - WhaSook Seo
- Department of Nursing, Inha University, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
Patients with brain tumor encounter a wide spectrum of tumor and treatment-related complications during their disease course. Tumors may serve as seizure substrates, are associated with a hypercoagulable state that results in thromboembolic complications, and may influence mood and cognition. Antitumor and supportive therapies may also have deleterious effects. Herein, we discuss major aspects of supportive care for patients with brain tumors, with attention to benefit and complications derived from the management of seizures, brain edema, venous thromboembolism, fatigue, mood alterations, and cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kester A Phillips
- Department of Neuroscience, Inova Health System, Inova Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA 22042, USA
| | - Camilo E Fadul
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, University of Virginia Health System, 1300 Jefferson Park Avenue, West Complex, Room 6228, Charlottesville, VA 22903-0156, USA
| | - David Schiff
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, University of Virginia Health System, 1300 Jefferson Park Avenue, West Complex, Room 6225, Charlottesville, VA 22903-0156, USA.
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Go SI, Koo DH, Kim ST, Song HN, Kim RB, Jang JS, Oh SY, Lee KH, Lee SI, Kim SG, Park LC, Lee SC, Park BB, Ji JH, Yi SY, Lee YG, Yun J, Bruera E, Hwang IG, Kang JH. Antiemetic Corticosteroid Rotation from Dexamethasone to Methylprednisolone to Prevent Dexamethasone-Induced Hiccup in Cancer Patients Treated with Chemotherapy: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Crossover Phase III Trial. Oncologist 2017; 22:1354-1361. [PMID: 28687626 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2017-0129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess whether the rotation of dexamethasone to methylprednisolone decreases the intensity of dexamethasone-induced hiccup (DIH) in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adult patients who experienced DIH within 3 days after the administration of dexamethasone as an antiemetic were screened. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to receive dexamethasone (n = 33) or methylprednisolone (n = 32) as an antiemetic (randomization phase). In the next cycle of chemotherapy, the dexamethasone group received methylprednisolone and vice versa in the methylprednisolone group (crossover phase). The primary endpoint was the difference in hiccup intensity as measured using the numeric rating scale (NRS) between two groups. RESULTS No female patients were enrolled, although the study did not exclude them. At the randomization phase, hiccup frequency was 28/33 (84.8%) in the dexamethasone group versus 20/32 (62.5%) in the methylprednisolone group (p = .04). Intensity of hiccup was significantly higher in the dexamethasone group than that in the methylprednisolone group (mean NRS, 3.5 vs. 1.4, p < .001). At the crossover phase, hiccup intensity was further decreased after the rotation of dexamethasone to methylprednisolone in the dexamethasone group (mean NRS, 3.5 to 0.9, p < .001), while it was increased by rotating methylprednisolone to dexamethasone in the methylprednisolone group (mean NRS, 1.4 to 3.3, p = .025). There were no differences in emesis intensity between the two groups at either the randomization or crossover phases. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01974024. CONCLUSION Dexamethasone-induced hiccup is a male-predominant phenomenon that can be ameliorated by rotating dexamethasone to methylprednisolone without compromising the antiemetic efficacy. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE In this randomized, multicenter, phase III trial, hiccup intensity was significantly lower when the antiemetic corticosteroid was rotated from dexamethasone to methylprednisolone without a change in emesis intensity than that when dexamethasone was maintained. At the crossover phase, hiccup intensity was increased again if dexamethasone was readministered instead of methylprednisolone. The present study demonstrated that dexamethasone-induced hiccup can be improved by rotating from dexamethasone to methylprednisolone without compromising its antiemetic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Il Go
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hoe Koo
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Tae Kim
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Haa-Na Song
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Rock Bum Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Joung-Soon Jang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Yong Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Hee Lee
- Division of Oncology-Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Il Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dankook University Hospital, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Geun Kim
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Lee Chun Park
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kosin University Gospel Hospital, Kosin University School of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Cheol Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Cheonan, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong-Bae Park
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Ho Ji
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Yoon Yi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Gyoo Lee
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jina Yun
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University School of Medicine, Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - In Gyu Hwang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hun Kang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Republic of Korea
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de Arriba Méndez JJ. [Dexamethasone-induced hiccup]. Med Clin (Barc) 2016; 146:284. [PMID: 26602312 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2015.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Lee GW, Kim RB, Go SI, Cho HS, Lee SJ, Hui D, Bruera E, Kang JH. Gender Differences in Hiccup Patients: Analysis of Published Case Reports and Case-Control Studies. J Pain Symptom Manage 2016; 51:278-83. [PMID: 26596880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2015.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Although sporadic male predominance in hiccup patients has been reported, the association between gender differences and triggering factors has rarely been evaluated in patients with hiccups. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate whether gender differences exist in hiccup patients by analyzing all previously published hiccup literature containing gender and etiology information. METHODS Published literature on this topic was identified using a standardized search strategy in the PubMed, SCOPUS, and CINAHL electronic databases. The literature search included studies published from January 1990 to December 2013. Searches were limited to English-language publications. Of 476 identified studies, 318 studies were eligible including eight case-control studies that contained nonhiccup control groups. Triggering factors for hiccups were categorized into two types: central nervous system (CNS) and non-CNS causes. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for the eight case-control studies and event rates for the other studies by meta-analysis. In addition, gender differences and mean ages were analyzed for the case studies. RESULTS Pooled OR was 2.42 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.40-4.17) with inclination for male predominance. Subgroup analysis by cause showed clear male predominance in the non-CNS type with OR of 11.72 (95% CI 3.16-43.50), whereas indistinct in the CNS type with OR of 1.74 (95% CI 0.95-3.16). Of the remaining 310 studies with 864 patients, previous findings were consistent. Male predominance was consistent in non-CNS (85.1%, 95% CI 78.2-90.2) and unknown origin (82.2%, 95% CI 75.8-87.2) patients, whereas mitigating the sex discrepancy in those with CNS origin (65.8%, 95% CI 53.1-76.5). CONCLUSION We demonstrated male predominance in hiccup patients. This gender difference for hiccups was more pronounced in patients with non-CNS causes, whereas indistinct in patients with CNS causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyeong-Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Rock Bum Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea; Environmental Health Center, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Il Go
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Seop Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Jun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - David Hui
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jung Hun Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea.
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Role of corticosteroids for fatigue in advanced incurable cancer: is it a 'wonder drug' or 'deal with the devil'. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2015; 8:346-51. [PMID: 25259545 DOI: 10.1097/spc.0000000000000093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although corticosteroids are frequently used to palliate cancer-related symptoms, limited published studies are available. This review summarizes recent literature on the impact of corticosteroids on fatigue, its related symptoms, and the role of 'corticosteroid rotation' in improving the corticosteroid-related side-effects. RECENT FINDINGS Only two placebo-controlled double-blinded randomized studies on corticosteroid for symptoms that met the inclusion criteria were published recently, despite the criteria being extended beyond 2012 and 2013. These two studies confirm the preliminary data that corticosteroids significantly improve cancer-related fatigue and anorexia with no significant side-effects. However, these studies were of short duration. Long-term use of corticosteroids is not recommended at this time because of the risk of debilitating side-effects and no evidence of its long-term benefits. Recent studies also suggest the possible role of corticosteroid rotation or switching similar to opioid rotation for improvement of these side-effects. SUMMARY Recent studies confirm the short-term benefit of corticosteroids for the symptomatic treatment of cancer-related fatigue and anorexia cachexia in advanced incurable cancer. Future studies are needed to determine the optimal dose, type, and the role of corticosteroid rotation so as to optimize long-term efficacy and minimize side-effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Hun Kang
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang University Hospital , Jinju, South Korea
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- 2 Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center , Houston, Texas
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Gonella S, Gonella F. Use of vinegar to relieve persistent hiccups in an advanced cancer patient. J Palliat Med 2015; 18:467-70. [PMID: 25775370 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2014.0391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This case report describes a patient whose persistent hiccups significantly improved with the use of vinegar. CASE PRESENTATION A patient with an adenocarcinoma of the colon and hepatic metastases developed hiccups the day following chemotherapy with FOL-FOX (folinic acid (leucovorin), 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin). Hiccups continued for seven days with no improvement from a number of commonly used pharmacological agents (chlorpromazine, metoclopramide, haloperidol, and baclofen). Relief was finally obtained after sipping vinegar. CASE MANAGEMENT AND OUTCOME: Hiccups occurred several times during the following chemotherapy cycles but the patient completed the treatment using vinegar when they recurred without stopping any drugs. Hiccups stopped or decreased in intensity or in rate per minute after sipping vinegar. CONCLUSIONS Hypotheses have been developed for the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying sour compounds' effectiveness in relieving hiccups. Further studies should explore the potential role of vinegar in relieving hiccups in advanced heavily treated cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gonella
- 1 Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Verona , Verona, Italy
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Lee GW, Oh SY, Kang MH, Kang JH, Park SH, Hwang IG, Yi SY, Choi YJ, Ji JH, Lee HY, Bruera E. Treatment of dexamethasone-induced hiccup in chemotherapy patients by methylprednisolone rotation. Oncologist 2013; 18:1229-34. [PMID: 24107973 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2013-0224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Dexamethasone-induced hiccup (DIH) is an underrecognized symptom in patients with cancer, and little information is available about its treatment. The aims of this study were to investigate the feasibility of methylprednisolone rotation as treatment and to confirm the male predominance among those with cancer who experienced DIH during chemotherapy. Methods. Persons with cancer who experienced hiccups during chemotherapy treatment and who were receiving treatment with dexamethasone were presumed to have DIH. The following algorithmic practice was implemented for antiemetic corticosteroid use: rotation from dexamethasone to methylprednisolone in the next cycle and dexamethasone re-administration in the second cycle of chemotherapy after recognition of hiccups to confirm DIH. All other antiemetics except corticosteroid remained unchanged. Patients (n = 40) were recruited from eight cancer centers in Korea from September 2012 to April 2013. Data were collected retrospectively. Results. Hiccup intensity (numeric rating scale [NRS]: 5.38 vs. 0.53) and duration (68.44 minutes vs. 1.79 minutes) were significantly decreased after rotation to methylprednisolone, while intensity of emesis was not increased (NRS: 2.63 vs. 2.08). Median dose of dexamethasone and methylprednisolone were 10 mg and 50 mg, respectively. Thirty-four (85%) of 40 patients showed complete resolution of hiccups after methylprednisolone rotation in the next cycle. Of these 34 patients, 25 (73.5%) had recurrence of hiccups after dexamethasone re-administration. Compared with baseline values, hiccup intensity (NRS: 5.24 vs. 2.44) and duration (66.43 minutes vs. 22.00 minutes) were significantly attenuated after dexamethasone re-administration. Of the 40 eligible patients, 38 (95%) were male. Conclusion. DIH during chemotherapy could be controlled without losing antiemetic potential by replacing dexamethasone with methylprednisolone. We also identified a male predominance of DIH. Further prospective studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyeong-Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Health Science, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, South Korea
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Mirijello A, Addolorato G, D'Angelo C, Ferrulli A, Vassallo G, Antonelli M, Leggio L, Landolfi R. Baclofen in the treatment of persistent hiccup: a case series. Int J Clin Pract 2013; 67:918-21. [PMID: 23834241 PMCID: PMC4976596 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.12184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistent hiccup is a worrying symptom both for patients, because of reduced quality of life, and for physicians, because of frustration for unsuccessful treatments. AIM To test baclofen administration for the treatment of persistent hiccup. METHOD We report a series of seven patients affected by persistent hiccup successfully treated with baclofen. RESULTS Hiccup stopped in all patients after a single administration of the drug. CONCLUSIONS Baclofen is a GABA(B) receptor agonist. It is conceivable that the reduction of dopamine release by GABA(B) receptor stimulation is able to interrupt hiccup's reflex arc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anna Ferrulli
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Italy
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Leppert W, Buss T. The role of corticosteroids in the treatment of pain in cancer patients. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2012; 16:307-13. [PMID: 22644902 PMCID: PMC3395343 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-012-0273-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Pain is one of the most frequent and most distressing symptoms in the course of cancer. The management of pain in cancer patients is based on the concept of the World Health Organization (WHO) analgesic ladder and was recently updated with the EAPC (European Association for Palliative Care) recommendations. Cancer pain may be relieved effectively with opioids administered alone or in combination with adjuvant analgesics. Corticosteroids are commonly used adjuvant analgesics and play an important role in neuropathic and bone pain treatment. However, in spite of the common use of corticosteroids, there is limited scientific evidence demonstrating their efficacy in cancer patients with pain. The use of corticosteroids in spinal cord compression, superior vena cava obstruction, raised intracranial pressure, and bowel obstruction is better established than in other nonspecific indications. This review aims to present the role of steroids in pain and management of other symptoms in cancer patients according to the available data, and discusses practical aspects of steroid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Leppert
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland.
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