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Radakovic R, Radakovic C, Abrahams S, Simmons Z, Carroll A. Quality of life, cognitive and behavioural impairment in people with motor neuron disease: a systematic review. Qual Life Res 2024; 33:1469-1480. [PMID: 38345764 PMCID: PMC11116232 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-024-03611-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Motor neuron disease (MND) is a neurodegenerative disease, progressively impacting function and self-perceived quality of life (QoL). Up to 50% of people with MND can present with cognitive and behavioural impairment, with an associated increase in caregiver burden or strain. However, there has been no systematic exploration of the relationship between QoL and cognitive or behavioural impairment in MND. The aim was to determine if there is a relationship between QoL and cognitive/behavioural impairment in MND, while also supplementarily looking to determine the types of cognitive/behavioural and QoL measures utilised in these studies. METHODS A systematic search was performed across multiple databases (PsychINFO, Embase, Medline, AMED) for research published up to the date of February 22, 2023. Studies utilising quantitative methods of measuring QoL, cognitive/behavioural functioning/impairment were included. Findings examining relationships between QoL-cognitive/behavioural impairment were extracted and synthesised. RESULTS A total of 488 studies were identified, with 14 studies included in the systematic review. All 14 studies were observational (11 cross-sectional, 3 longitudinal). 13 studies utilised MND non-specific measures, particularly in relation to QoL and cognitive impairment. Of 8 studies measuring behavioural impairment 62.5% (N = 5) found either a lower QoL difference or association. Only 33.3% (N = 4) of 12 studies measuring cognitive impairment found a lower QoL difference or association. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review shows that behavioural impairment may have an impact on QoL in MND. There is variability in types of assessments used to measure QoL and also cognitive/behavioural impairment, most of which are disease-non-specific. Recommendations for future research are to use comprehensive disease-specific, multidomain measures to further elucidate the QoL-cognitive/behavioural impairment relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratko Radakovic
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Therapies, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | | | - Sharon Abrahams
- Human Cognitive Neuroscience-Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Zachary Simmons
- Department of Neurology, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Amy Carroll
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Therapies, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
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Lee SY, Yoo SH, Cho B, Kim KH, Jang MS, Shin J, Hwang I, Choi SJ, Sung JJ, Kim MS. Burden and preparedness of care partners of people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at home in Korea: A care partner survey. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 38760965 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The care burden of people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (pALS) increases with disease progression. This study aimed to investigate the home care status and preparedness of care partners of pALS (cALS) in Korea. METHODS An online survey was conducted with family care partners of patients diagnosed with ALS for over 1 year in 2022. The data collected included care time, depression evaluated using the patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), preparedness for caregiving scale (PCS), and caregiver competence scale (CCS). Results were compared based on whether the pALS underwent a tracheostomy or not. RESULTS Ninety-eight cALS of 98 pALS participated in the study, of whom 59 pALS had undergone tracheostomy. Among the cALS, 60.2% were spouses, and 34.7% were children. The cALS took care of the patients for 13 (8-20) hours/day (median, interquartile range [IQR]) on weekdays and 15 (10-24) h/day on weekends. Among the cALS, 91.8% were depressed, and 28.6% had severe depression. The median (IQR) PCS and CCS scores were low (11/32 (8-15) and 8/20 (8-11), respectively), and both were lower in those caring for patients without than with tracheostomy (p < .001 and p < .02, respectively). Most cALS (77.6%) wished to continue caring for their pALS at home. DISCUSSION Family care partners of pALS spend more than half of each day caring for patients and are often depressed. Most cALS preferred providing care at home, but felt ill-prepared. Designing home-based medical care is necessary for pALS to thrive at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Young Lee
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Human Systems Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin Hye Yoo
- Department of Human Systems Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Palliative Care and Clinical Ethics, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Belong Cho
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Human Systems Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute on Aging, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kye Hyung Kim
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Seoul Jang
- Seoul National University Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongmi Shin
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Inyoung Hwang
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Jin Choi
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Joon Sung
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Sun Kim
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Rahimian Z, Rahimian L, Lopez‐Castroman J, Ostovarfar J, Fallahi MJ, Nayeri MA, Vardanjani HM. What medical conditions lead to a request for euthanasia? A rapid scoping review. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e1978. [PMID: 38515545 PMCID: PMC10955044 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1978] [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: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Euthanasia is a controversial issue related to the right to die. Although euthanasia is mostly requested by terminally sick individuals, even in societies where it is legal, it is unclear what medical conditions lead to euthanasia requests. In this scoping review, we aimed to compile medical conditions for which euthanasia has been requested or performed around the world. Methods The review was preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. Retrieved search results were screened and unrelated documents were excluded. Data on reasons for conducting or requesting euthanasia along with the study type, setting, and publication year were extracted from documents. Human development index and euthanasia legality were also extracted. Major medical fields were used to categorize reported reasons. Group discussions were conducted if needed for this categorization. An electronic search was undertaken in MEDLINE through PubMed for published documents covering the years January 2000 to September 2022. Results Out of 3323 records, a total of 197 papers were included. The most common medical conditions in euthanasia requests are cancer in a terminal phase (45.4%), Alzheimer's disease and dementia (19.8%), constant unbearable physical or mental suffering (19.8%), treatment-resistant mood disorders (12.2%), and advanced cardiovascular disorders (12.2%). Conclusion Reasons for euthanasia are mostly linked to chronic or terminal physical conditions. Psychiatric disorders also lead to a substantial proportion of euthanasia requests. This review can help to identify the features shared by conditions that lead to performing or requesting euthanasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Rahimian
- Student Research CommitteeShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- MD‐MPH Department, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Leila Rahimian
- School of DentistryShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Jorge Lopez‐Castroman
- Department of Psychiatry, CHU Nîmes & IGFCNRS‐INSERMUniversity of MontpellierMontpellierFrance
- CIBERSAMMadridSpain
| | - Jeyran Ostovarfar
- MD‐MPH Department, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Mohammad J. Fallahi
- Thoracic and Vascular Surgery Research CenterShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Mohammad A. Nayeri
- Student Research CommitteeShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- MD‐MPH Department, School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Hossein M. Vardanjani
- MD‐MPH Department, School of Medicine, Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
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Mehta AK, Sarmet M, Maiser S, Meyer JA, Kolodziejczak S, Washington K, Simmons Z. Quality-of-life assessment instruments used across ALS clinics. Muscle Nerve 2023; 68:865-872. [PMID: 37823580 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Instruments have been developed to assess quality of life (QoL) among people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It is unclear whether these are utilized regularly in the clinical setting to guide individual patient care. In this study we aimed to understand the current use of instruments and existing barriers to assessing QoL in clinical ALS care. METHODS An anonymous survey developed by Northeast ALS (NEALS) Consortium Palliative Committee members was distributed to all multidisciplinary NEALS members. Data were summarized via calculation of descriptive statistics. ALS Center characteristics were compared using chi-square and Fisher exact tests for categorical variables. RESULTS Seventy-three (6.4%) of the 1132 NEALS members responded to the survey, representing 148 clinics, 49.3% of whom reported assessing QoL during clinic visits. The most used ALS-specific instruments were the ALS Assessment Questionnaire (19.4%) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Specific Quality of Life scale (16.6%). Barriers reported were uncertainty regarding which instrument to use and length of visits. QoL assessment was not significantly correlated with length of clinic visit but with access to specialty palliative care. DISCUSSION QoL assessments are performed by some, but not all, ALS centers during clinical visits. Although this study did have a low number of responding centers, the percentage, the proportion is similar to that seen in earlier studies, which limits the findings' generalizability. The value of QoL assessments' impact on outcomes should be further investigated and, if warranted, creative ways sought to increase the frequency of their use, including patient self-assessments before clinic and/or the use of teleheath to reduce the length of clinic visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambereen K Mehta
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Max Sarmet
- Graduate Department of Health Science and Technology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Samuel Maiser
- Department of Neurology, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jenny A Meyer
- Department of Neurology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Sherry Kolodziejczak
- ALS Care Clinic/Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab/Therapy Services/Worker's Program, Crestwood Medical Center, Huntsville, Alabama, USA
| | - Karla Washington
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Zachary Simmons
- Department of Neurology, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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Young HM, Kilaberia TR, Whitney R, Link BM, Bell JF, Tonkikh O, Famula J, Oskarsson B. Needs of persons living with ALS at home and their family caregivers: A scoping review. Muscle Nerve 2023; 68:240-249. [PMID: 37248728 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Most persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) live at home with support of family caregivers, with escalating complexity of care over the trajectory of the disease requiring resources and support to mitigate negative physical, social, and emotional outcomes. METHODS This scoping review identifies the home health/home care needs of persons with ALS and their caregivers as a basis for creating a home health medical standard. We used the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) to examine studies describing home care needs published between 2011 and 2021. RESULTS Our search yielded 481 articles, of which 44 were included with a total of 3592 (9-273) participants. Most studies used a cross-sectional design and 20 (45%) were rated as high quality. We grouped the needs identified as emotional/psychological, assistive devices and technology, information and education, and human resources and professional services. Most studies demonstrated persistent unmet needs and that available interventions were helpful while needs generally were not met proactively, despite the predictable trajectory. DISCUSSION This review describes biopsychosocial and equipment interventions over the trajectory of ALS with implications for anticipatory planning by clinicians, as well as policy for coverage of necessary services and supports. Interdisciplinary expert teams could develop consensus around needs across the trajectory and recommended services and supports. To make knowledge more accessible, encourage availability of services, and clarify the need for coverage of services, we aim to develop an expert consensus-based ALS home health medical standard guidance document in collaboration with the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Young
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Tina R Kilaberia
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robin Whitney
- Valley Foundation School of Nursing, San Jose State University, San Jose, California, USA
| | - Benjamin M Link
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Janice F Bell
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Orly Tonkikh
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Jessica Famula
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
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Ciećwierska K, Lulé D, Bielecki M, Helczyk O, Maksymowicz-Śliwińska A, Finsel J, Nieporęcki K, Andersen PM, Ludolph AC, Kuźma-Kozakiewicz M. Quality of life and depression in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - does the country of origin matter? BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:72. [PMID: 37312136 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01189-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the inevitable relentless progressing nature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), it is essential to identify factors influencing patients' wellbeing. The study aimed to prospectively assess factors influencing the quality of life (QoL) and depression in ALS patients compared to healthy controls (HCs) from Poland, Germany and Sweden and their relationship to socio-demographic and clinical factors. METHODS 314 ALS patients (120 from Poland, 140 from Germany, 54 from Sweden) and 311 age-, sex- and education-level-matched HCs underwent standardized interviews for quality of life, depression, functional status and pain. RESULTS Patients from all three countries showed similar levels of functional impairment (ALSFRS-R). Overall, ALS patients assessed their quality of life as lower compared to HCs (p < 0.001 for the anamnestic comparative self-assessment (ACSA), p = 0.002 for the Schedule for the evaluation of the subjective quality of life - SEIQoL- direct weighting (SEIQoL-DW). Also, the German and Swedish patients, but not the Polish, reported higher depression levels than the corresponding HCs (p < 0.001). Analysis of ALS groups revealed that functional impairment was related to a lower quality of life (ACSA) and higher depression levels among German ALS patients. Longer time since diagnosis predicted lower depression and (in male subjects) higher quality of life. CONCLUSIONS ALS patients assess their quality of life and mood lower than healthy individuals within the studied countries. The relationships between clinical and demographic factors are moderated by country of provenance, which bears implications for the design and interpretation of scientific and clinical studies, which should reflect the complexity and heterogeneity of mechanisms determining QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Ciećwierska
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center of Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorothée Lulé
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Maksymilian Bielecki
- Department of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Helczyk
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Julia Finsel
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Krzysztof Nieporęcki
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center of Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Peter M Andersen
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Neuroscience, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Magdalena Kuźma-Kozakiewicz
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center of Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
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Religiosity in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a cross-country comparison. Qual Life Res 2023:10.1007/s11136-023-03383-4. [PMID: 36929475 PMCID: PMC10328897 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03383-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor impairment leading to early death. Religiousness is one of the factors potentially alleviating the psychological burden of patients. However, its role might vary according to cultural context. Our study aimed to analyze religiosity, and its clinical, psychological and socio-demographic correlates in ALS patients and controls, comparing two European countries with different cultural backgrounds. METHODS 268 Polish and German ALS patients, including 18 with locked-in syndrome (LIS) and 198 healthy controls (HC) were interviewed about religiousness, quality of life (Qol), depression, functional status and pain. A follow-up was conducted on 71 patients. RESULTS Polish subjects had a significantly higher level of public, private and general religiosity than the German sample. Importantly, we found no difference in total and public religiousness between ALS patients and HC within either population. Only the private religiousness was significantly higher in German patients compared to controls. In the same sample, private religiousness correlated with functional impairment due to disease progression. In ALS groups and LIS patients, religiousness did not correlate with any disease-associated factors: disease duration, pain, Qol or depression. Follow-up comparisons in the ALS group revealed worsening functional status, increased depression and no significant change in religiosity. CONCLUSIONS Religiosity was linked to the cultural background rather than ALS. Generally, it did not correlate with clinical, psychological and socio-demographic parameters and was stable throughout disease progression. The only exception was the relationship between the functional decline and private religiosity among German patients.
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8
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Maksymowicz-Śliwińska A, Lulé D, NieporĘcki K, Ciećwierska K, Ludolph AC, Kuźma-Kozakiewicz M. The quality of life and depression in primary caregivers of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is affected by patient-related and culture-specific conditions. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2022; 24:317-326. [PMID: 36510650 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2022.2126322] [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] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To analyze the quality of life (QoL) and frequency of depression in primary caregivers of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in two neighboring European countries. Methods: a cross-sectional study performed in 164 dyads of ALS patients and caregivers followed at clinical ALS centers in Poland and Germany between 2015 and 2018. The quality of life (Anamnestic Comparative Self-Assessment - ACSA, Quality of Life in Life-Threatening Illness - Family Carer Version - QOLLTI-F) and depression (ALS-Depression-Inventory 12-Items - ADI-12) of the caregivers was assessed and correlated with caregivers- and patient-related factors. Patient's clinical status was assessed by ALS Functional Rating Scale - revised and the Behavioral Score of the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS Screen. Results: the caregivers reported a positive QoL associated with functional and behavioral status of the patient, disease duration and caregivers's depression The most impaired domains of the QoL differed depending on the country of provenance, cultural background and/or social support of the caregivers. Depression was present in 1/3 of the caregivers and was significantly more frequent in the Polish group. It positively correlated with female gender, disease duration, sleep disturbances and functional decline. Both QoL and mood were significantly lower in the caregivers more burdened with the functional care of the patients. Conclusions: the wellbeing of caregivers of ALS patients is affected by patient-related and culture-specific conditions. Understanding the needs and background of psychological adaptation of the caregivers from various countries may translate into better QoL and local patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dorothée Lulé
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Krzysztof NieporĘcki
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center of the Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Ciećwierska
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center of the Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Lapin B, Mate K, Li Y, Thakore N. Subjective health perception prioritizes psychological well-being over physical function in advanced ALS: A multigroup structural equation modeling analysis. J Neurol Sci 2022; 442:120442. [PMID: 36201964 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120442] [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: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite declining physical function, individuals with ALS report relative preservation of overall health perception, or health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This paradoxical finding is attributed to psychological adaptation to deficits. OBJECTIVE The aim of this cross-sectional study was to examine reprioritization of factors that determine HRQoL with disease progression. METHODS As standard care, patients with ALS self-reported ALSFRS-R (measure of bulbar, motor, and respiratory function), PHQ-9 (measure of depression), and EQ-5D-3L (utility index that includes a visual analog scale asking about health perception [EQ-VAS]). ALS was staged by the FT9 method and classified into early (stages 0-2) and late (stages 3-4) disease. Multigroup structural equation modeling was used to evaluate weights of physical (PHY) and psychological well-being (PSY) for early and late disease, on EQ-VAS (as a measure of overall HRQoL). RESULTS There were 578 patients (mean age 61.5 ± 11.9, 59% male) with ALS: 423 (73%) early and 155 (27%) late disease. A measurement model was established with good model fit (RMSEA = 0.076, CFI = 0.943, SRMR = 0.045). In adjusted models, standardized weights of PHY and PSY on HRQoL in early disease were 0.34 (standard error = 0.06) and 0.24 (0.06) respectively, whereas for late disease they were 0.39 (0.07) and 0.42 (0.07). Importantly, PHY and PSY were significantly correlated in early but not in late disease. CONCLUSIONS Our study found health perception is more representative of psychological well-being and less representative of physical function across the disease progression. Greater allocation for psychological health would be the most effective strategy to maximize subjective health status as ALS advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Lapin
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America; Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.
| | - Kedar Mate
- Center for Neurological Restoration, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Yadi Li
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America; Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Nimish Thakore
- Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, United States of America
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10
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An R, Wu Y, Li Y, Li X, Ai S, Xu Y, He C. Pain-Related Factors and Their Impact on Quality of Life in Chinese Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:897598. [PMID: 35924224 PMCID: PMC9340542 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.897598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Pain is considered a common symptom in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the results of studies on pain in ALS are limited and inconsistent. The aim of our study was to comprehensively evaluate the potential factors of pain and effects on quality of life (QoL) in patients with ALS from China. Participants and Methods Patients were eligible if they fulfilled the criteria of probable and definitive ALS according to the revised El Escorial criteria. Pain was assessed by the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI). Disease severity, sleep quality, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated in ALS patients by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-revised (ALSFRS-R) and ALS severity scale (ALSSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (MQOL). Then, the clinical characteristics of ALS patients with pain were compared with those without pain. Last, associated factors of pain, as well as impact on QoL in Chinese ALS patients, were assessed. Results A total of 86 ALS patients were included. ALS patients with pain tended to have higher FSS scores and poorer QoL. The FSS score and ALSSS [lower extremity (LE) + upper extremity (UE)] were associated with pain in ALS patients. The ALS Functional Rating Scale-revised (ALSFRS-R), Pain Severity Index (PSI), HARS and HDRS scores were significantly associated with both the physical and psychological domains of QoL. Conclusion Our study was the first to comprehensively evaluate factors associated with pain in Chinese ALS patients, finding that fatigue can be a risk factor for pain and ALSSS (LE + UE) score was related with pain intensity. Additionally, we identified the adverse effects of ALSSS (LE + UE), HARS and HDRS scores on QoL in Chinese ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran An
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shaolong Ai
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanming Xu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yanming Xu,
| | - Chengqi He
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Chengqi He,
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11
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Apreleva Kolomeytseva AT, Brylev L, Eshghi M, Bottaeva Z, Zhang J, Fachner JC, Street AJ. Home-Based Music Therapy to Support Bulbar and Respiratory Functions of Persons with Early and Mid-Stage Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Protocol and Results from a Feasibility Study. Brain Sci 2022; 12:494. [PMID: 35448025 PMCID: PMC9027911 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory failure, malnutrition, aspiration pneumonia, and dehydration are the precursors to mortality in ALS. Loss of natural communication is considered one of the worst aspects of ALS. This first study to test the feasibility of a music therapy protocol for bulbar and respiratory rehabilitation in ALS employs a mixed-methods case study series design with repeated measures. Newly diagnosed patients meeting the inclusion criteria were invited to participate, until the desired sample size (n = 8) was achieved. The protocol was delivered to participants in their homes twice weekly for six weeks. Individualised exercise sets for independent practice were provided. Feasibility data (recruitment, retention, adherence, tolerability, self-motivation and personal impressions) were collected. Bulbar and respiratory changes were objectively measured. Results. A high recruitment rate (100%), a high retention rate (87.5%) and high mean adherence to treatment (95.4%) provide evidence for the feasibility of the study protocol. The treatment was well tolerated. Mean adherence to the suggested independent exercise routine was 53%. The outcome measurements to evaluate the therapy-induced change in bulbar and respiratory functions were defined. Findings suggest that the protocol is safe to use in early- and mid-stage ALS and that music therapy was beneficial for the participants' bulbar and respiratory functions. Mean trends suggesting that these functions were sustained or improved during the treatment period were observed for most outcome parameters: Maximal Inspiratory Pressure, Maximal Expiratory Pressure, Peak Expiratory Flow, the Center for Neurologic Study-Bulbar Function Scale speech and swallowing subscales, Maximum Phonation Time, Maximum Repetition Rate-Alternating, Maximum Repetition Rate-Sequential, Jitter, Shimmer, NHR, Speaking rate, Speech-pause ratio, Pause frequency, hypernasality level, Time-to-Laryngeal Vestibule Closure, Maximum Pharyngeal Constriction Area, Peak Position of the Hyoid Bone, Total Pharyngeal Residue C24area. Conclusion. The suggested design and protocol are feasible for a larger study, with some modifications, including aerodynamic measure of nasalance, abbreviated voice sampling and psychological screening.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lev Brylev
- Bujanov Moscow City Clinical Hospital, 115419 Moscow, Russia;
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, 115419 Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry, 115419 Moscow, Russia
| | - Marziye Eshghi
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA 02129-4557, USA;
| | - Zhanna Bottaeva
- Clinical and Research Institute of Emergency Pediatric Surgery and Trauma, 119180 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Jufen Zhang
- Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care, School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CM1 1SQ, UK;
| | - Jörg C. Fachner
- Music, Health and the Brain, Cambridge Institute for Music Therapy Research, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CM1 1SQ, UK;
| | - Alexander J. Street
- Music, Health and the Brain, Cambridge Institute for Music Therapy Research, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CM1 1SQ, UK;
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12
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An R, Li C, Li X, Wu Y, He X, Ai S, Xu Y, He C. Fatigue in Chinese Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Associated Factors and Impact on Quality of Life. Front Neurol 2022; 13:806577. [PMID: 35250816 PMCID: PMC8894316 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.806577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Fatigue was considered as a common symptom in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Previous studies about the impact of fatigue on Quality of Life (QoL) in patients with ALS were limited and inconsistent. Besides, a systematic investigation of fatigue in Chinese patients with ALS was lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the frequency and associated factors of fatigue and impact on QoL in Chinese patients with ALS. Participants and Methods Probable and definitive patients with ALS and age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HCs) were consecutively recruited. The frequency of fatigue between both the groups was determined by the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Disease severity, sleep quality, sleepiness, anxiety, depression, and QoL were evaluated in patients with ALS by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-revised (ALSFRS-R) and the ALS Severity Scale (ALSSS), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (MQOL). Then, clinical characteristics of patients with ALS with fatigue were compared with those without fatigue. Lastly, associated factors of fatigue and impact on QoL in Chinese patients with ALS were assessed. Results A total of 175 patients with ALS and 175 HCs were included. Fatigue was significantly more frequent in patients with ALS than in controls (32.6 vs. 17.7%, p = 0.001). Patients with ALS with fatigue scored lower on the ALSFRS-R, the ALSSS [lower extremity (LE) + upper extremity (UE)], the total ALSSS, higher in the HARS, HDRS, PSQI, ESS scores, and a poorer QoL. Daytime dysfunction and the ALSSS (LE + UE) score were associated with a higher risk of fatigue. The ALSSS (LE + UE), the FSS, age, the HARS, and the HDRS score were significantly associated with various aspects of QoL. Conclusion This study has described fatigue in Chinese patients with ALS and finding daytime dysfunction and the lower ALSSS (LE + UE) were associated with a higher risk of fatigue. Also, we identified an inverse relationship of fatigue intensity with the psychological domain of QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran An
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianghua He
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shaolong Ai
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanming Xu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Yanming Xu
| | - Chengqi He
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Chengqi He
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13
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Van Damme J, Kuspinar A, Johnston W, O'Connell C, Turnbull J, Chum M, Strachan P, Luth W, McCullum S, Peters N, MacDermid J, Dal Bello-Haas V. Refining items for a preference-based, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis specific, health-related quality of life scale. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2022; 23:508-516. [PMID: 35147072 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2022.2029898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to refine the items of a preference-based amyotrophic lateral sclerosis health-related quality of life scale (PB-ALS HRQL scale) based on domains generated in a previous study. Methods: Survey methodology was used to assess item importance rating (IR) and independence. Median importance was calculated for each item and a rating of "very important" was required for the item to remain. Correlations were used to examine item independence. Highly correlated items (rs > 0.7) were considered for removal. Cognitive debriefing (CD) interviews, conducted by Zoom, telephone, or email based on participant preference and communication needs, were used to identify potential issues. Participants provided feedback about wording, clarity, response options, and recall period on randomly selected items. Items were considered finalized when three sequential CD participants approved the item with no revisions. Results: Thirty-four people with ALS (PALS, n = 16 females; age range 44-78 years; ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised [ALSFRS-R] range 0-48) in Canada completed the survey; a subset of 18 PALS completed CD interviews (n = 8 female; age range 44-71 years; ALSFRS-R range 0-48). Four items were highly correlated with one or more items, were not rated as very important, or were not approved via CD and were removed. Conclusions: The final four-response option PB-ALS Scale includes eight items: recreation and leisure, mobility, interpersonal interactions and relationships, eating and swallowing, handling objects, communicating, routine activities, and mood. The next step is to translate the PB-ALS Scale into French and develop a scoring algorithm based on PALS' preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Van Damme
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Ayse Kuspinar
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Wendy Johnston
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Colleen O'Connell
- Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation, Fredericton, Canada
| | - John Turnbull
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Marvin Chum
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Westerly Luth
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Shane McCullum
- Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation, Fredericton, Canada
| | - Nicole Peters
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,School of Physical Therapy, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Joy MacDermid
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,School of Physical Therapy, Western University, London, Canada
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14
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Åkerblom Y, Zetterberg L, Larsson BJ, Nyholm D, Nygren I, Åsenlöf P. Pain, disease severity and associations with individual quality of life in patients with motor neuron diseases. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:154. [PMID: 34641829 PMCID: PMC8507097 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00848-6] [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: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Up to 85% of people with motor neuron disease (MND) report pain, but whether pain has negative impact on quality of life is unclear. The aim was to study associations between pain, disease severity and individual quality of life (IQOL) in patients with MND. Methods In this cross sectional study, 61 patients were recruited from four multidisciplinary teams in Sweden, whereof 55 responded to the pain measure (The Brief Pain Inventory – Short form) and were included in the main analyses. Disease severity was measured with the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale - Revised Version, and individual quality of life was measured with a study-specific version of the Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life - Direct Weighting. Results Forty-one (74%) of the participants who answered BPI-SF (n = 55) reported pain. Thirty-nine (71%) of those reported pain during the past 24 h. The severity of pain was on average moderate, with eight participants (14%) reporting severe pain (PSI ≥ 7). Satisfaction with IQOL for the entire sample was good (scale 1-7, where 1 equals poor quality of life): median 5, interquartile range (IQR) 2.75 and there was no difference in satisfaction with IQOL between those reporting pain/not reporting pain (median 5, IQR 2/median 5, IQR 3.5, Mann-Whitney U = 249, p = 0.452). There was neither any correlation between pain severity and satisfaction with IQOL, nor between disease severity and satisfaction with IQOL. Conclusions The results add to the hypothesis that associations between non-motor symptoms such as pain prevalence and pain severity and IQOL in MND are weak. Pain prevalence was high and the results pointed to that some participants experienced high pain severity, which indicate that pain assessments and pain treatments tailored to the specific needs of the MND population should be developed and scientifically evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ylva Åkerblom
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiotherapy, Uppsala University, Box 593 BMC, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lena Zetterberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiotherapy, Uppsala University, Box 593 BMC, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Dag Nyholm
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ingela Nygren
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Åsenlöf
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiotherapy, Uppsala University, Box 593 BMC, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
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15
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Peters N, Dal Bello-Haas V, Packham T, Chum M, O'Connell C, Johnston WS, MacDermid JC, Turnbull J, Van Damme J, Kuspinar A. Do Generic Preference-Based Measures Accurately Capture Areas of Health-Related Quality of Life Important to Individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Content Validation Study. PATIENT-RELATED OUTCOME MEASURES 2021; 12:191-203. [PMID: 34211304 PMCID: PMC8242131 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s313512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective The objectives of this study were to 1) assess the content validity of generic preference-based measures (GPBMs), and (2) examine the convergent validity of the EuroQol 5 Dimension 5 Level (EQ-5D-5L), against the Patient Generated Index (PGI) in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Methods Participants were recruited from 3 clinical sites across Canada. The PGI, EQ-5D-5L and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) were administered through an online or hardcopy survey and scores compared for convergent validation. Domains nominated by participants as important to their health-related quality of life were generated using the PGI, classified using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and mapped onto GPBMs to determine content coverage. Results Fifty-two participants (N=28 female; 61.3 ± 11.6 mean age ± standard deviation (SD); 3.5 ± 2.9 mean ± SD years since diagnosis) completed this study. The top three ICF domains identified by participants were recreation and leisure, lower limb mobility, and interpersonal relationships. The Quality of Well-Being Self-Administered (QWB-SA) scale had the highest content coverage (87%) and the Health Utilities Index 3 (HUI3) had the lowest (33%). Two domains were covered by all GPBMs and no GPBM included all domains identified as important by participants. A moderate correlation coefficient of 0.52 between the PGI and EQ-5D-5L was found. Conclusion The majority of GPBMs covered only approximately half of the domains important to individuals with ALS suggesting the need for an ALS specific preference-based measure to better reflect the health-related quality of life of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Peters
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Tara Packham
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Marvin Chum
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Wendy S Johnston
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Joy C MacDermid
- School of Physical Therapy, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - John Turnbull
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jill Van Damme
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Ayse Kuspinar
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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16
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Quality of life among relatives of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A prospective and longitudinal study. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:203-211. [PMID: 34154691 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521000778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Relatives are often central in caring for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), involving considerable physical, emotional, and social challenges. The aim of this study was to describe individual quality of life (iQoL) among relatives of patients with ALS, from diagnosis through disease progression. METHOD A total of 31 relatives were included. Data collection was performed at five time points: 1-3 months after their relatives had been diagnosed with ALS and every 6 months for 2 years. Quality of life was determined using the Schedule of Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life - Direct Weighting (SEIQoL-DW), emotional distress with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the illness severity of the patients was determined with the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALS FRS-R). RESULTS The SEIQoL-DW involves participants nominating the important life areas. The most nominated areas were family, friends, health, and leisure. Although most relatives had overall good and stable iQoL, several had scores indicating poor iQoL on some occasions during the disease trajectory. The relatives' iQoL correlated with emotional well-being and the patient's physical function at different time points. SIGNIFICANT OF RESULT Social relations, emotional well-being, and rapid decline in the patient's physical function influence the relatives' iQoL. Measuring both emotional well-being and iQoL, with a focus on the relatives' own descriptions of perceived iQoL and those factors contributing to their iQoL during the disease trajectory may improve the possibility of identifying and supporting those relatives with poor iQoL.
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17
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Effects of prolonged interruption of rehabilitation routines in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:369-374. [PMID: 33942709 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521000584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) experienced prolonged interruption of their rehabilitation palliative care routines due to restrictive COVID-19 pandemic public health measures. This study assesses the effects of before and after the lockdown on functionality rates and quality of life (QoL) in patients with ALS. METHODS A longitudinal observational study was conducted. Participants were assessed three times - early January (T0), before mandatory lockdown (T1), and during lockdown (T2) - using the ALS Functional Rating Scale-revised (ALSFRS-R), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and the ALS-Specific Quality of Life-Short Form (ALSSQOL-SF). The paired-sample t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used. RESULTS Thirty-two patients were included with a mean age of 56.9 (SD 14.2) years and mean symptoms onset of 27.1 (SD 14.3) months. ALSFRS-R mean scores decayed significantly over time when comparing T0-T1 (0.26 ± 0.38) and T1-T2 (1.36 ± 1.43) slopes (p < 0.001). Significant differences were observed between T1 and T2 for ALSSQOL-SF scores (115.31 ± 17.06 vs. 104.31 ± 20.65), especially in four specific domains, and FSS scores (34.06 ± 16.84 vs. 40.09 ± 17.63). Negative correlations between negative emotions and physical symptoms assessed by ALSSQOL-SF and FSS were found. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESULTS Rehabilitation treatment routines in palliative care, such as physiotherapy and speech therapy, appear to mitigate the ALSFRS-R slope. Prolonged interruption of rehabilitation during the lockdown may have accelerated the functional decline in ALS patients' motor skills with as measured after 2 months by the ALSFRS-R in the limb and bulbar subscores, but not respiratory subscore. Other short-term effects, increased fatigue and negative impact on QoL, were also verified.
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18
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Afrakhteh M, Esmaeili S, Shati M, Shojaei SF, Bahadori M, Zamani B, Almasi-Doghaee M, Haghi-Ashtiani B. Validating the Persian version of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-specific quality of life-revised instrument. CURRENT JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY 2021; 20:37-42. [PMID: 38011400 PMCID: PMC8511608 DOI: 10.18502/cjn.v20i1.6378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Specific Quality of Life-Revised (ALSSQOL-R) encompasses 50 items which assess quality of life (QOL) in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in six major domains. This study aims to translate the ALSSQOL-R into Persian and evaluate its reliability and validity among Iranian patients. Methods: ALSSQOL-R was translated by the standard multi-step forward-backward method. Content validity was calculated using item content validity index (I-CVI). Three items in the "intimacy" domain were deleted considering Iranian culture. Cronbach's alpha was used for all 6 dimensions to calculate the internal consistency reliability. Test-retest reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) with one-month interval. Concurrent validity was measured by the validated version of 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire. Results: Sixty-three patients with ALS were enrolled in the study. I-CVI was 70%, promoted to 85% after modifications (acceptable). Regarding internal consistency reliability, Cronbach's alpha in all six domains was 0.70 and total Cronbach's alpha was 0.89 which is assumed as good. In terms of test-retest reliability, ICC [95% confidence interval (CI)] was 0.91 (91%) and Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was 0.90 (P < 0.001), all indicating an excellent reliability. The concurrent validity was established based on a strong correlation with SF-36 (r = 0.744, P < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings show that the modified Persian version of ALSSQOL-R is a valid and reliable QOL questionnaire which can be used for Iranian patients with ALS in both clinical and research settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Afrakhteh
- Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Esmaeili
- Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Centre, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Shati
- Mental Health Research Center, Social Injury Prevention Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Tehran
| | - Seyedeh Fahimeh Shojaei
- Firoozgar Clinical Research and Development Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Bahadori
- Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Zamani
- Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Almasi-Doghaee
- Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahram Haghi-Ashtiani
- Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Prell T, Witte OW, Gunkel A, Grosskreutz J. Cognitive deficits have only limited influence on health-related quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:1963-1967. [PMID: 31317778 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2019.1642296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the association between cognitive deficits and health-related quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS The revised ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R for physical impairment), the ALS Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-40 for health-related quality of life) and the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS Screen (ECAS for cognition) were assessed in 125 patients with ALS. Correlations between ALSAQ-40 domains and ECAS functions were tested using Spearman correlation. Linear regression was used to evaluate the relationship between dysphagia, depression, hopelessness, pain (all derived from corresponding items from the ALSFRS-R or ALSAQ-40), ALSFRS-R, ECAS and the ALSAQ-40. RESULTS Verbal fluency, language and executive function were disturbed in 69 (55%), 54 (43%) and 41 (33%) patients, respectively. In the ALS non-specific domains the memory and visuospatial function were impaired in 44 (35%) and 12 (10%) patients. In the non-demented group the five ECAS functions did not correlate with the ALSAQ-40 subdomains. The ALSFRS-R score, hopelessness, pain, and depression explained 65% of the ALSAQ-40 SI variance; the ECAS total score did not significantly predict ALSAQ-40 summary index. The ECAS visuospatial, executive function and fluency significantly predicted emotional well-being (adjusted R2 = 0.08). When the model was controlled for depression, hopelessness and pain none of the ECAS functions (visuospatial, executive function and fluency) were significant predictors of emotional well-being. CONCLUSION Deficits in visuospatial function, executive function and fluency constrain the ability to manage activities of daily living and this might cause decline in well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tino Prell
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Healthy Ageing, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Otto W Witte
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,Center for Healthy Ageing, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Anne Gunkel
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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20
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Galvin M, Gavin T, Mays I, Heverin M, Hardiman O. Individual quality of life in spousal ALS patient-caregiver dyads. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:371. [PMID: 33225955 PMCID: PMC7682006 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01551-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Quality of life is a basic goal of health and social care. The majority of people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are cared for at home by family caregivers. It is important to recognize the factors that contribute to quality of life for individuals to better understand the lived experiences in a condition for which there is currently no curative treatment. Aim To explore individual quality of life of people with ALS and their informal caregivers over time. Methods Over three semi-structured home interviews, 28 patient-caregiver dyads provided information on a range of demographic and clinical features, psychological distress, caregiver burden, and individual quality of life. Quality of life data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods with integration at the analysis and interpretation phases. Results Individual Quality of Life was high for patients and caregivers across the interviews series, and higher among patients than their care partners at each time point. Family, hobbies and social activities were the main self-defined contributors to quality of life. The importance of health declined relative to other areas over time. Friends and finances became less important for patients, but were assigned greater importance by caregivers across the illness trajectory. Psychological distress was higher among caregivers. Caregiver burden consistently increased. Conclusion The findings from this study point to the importance of exploring and monitoring quality of life at an individual level. Self-defined contributory factors are relevant to the individual within his/her context. As an integrated outcome measure individual quality of life should be assessed and monitored as part of routine clinical care during the clinical encounter. This can facilitate conversations between health care providers, patients and families, and inform interventions and contribute to decision support mechanisms. The ascertainment of self-defined life quality, especially in progressive neurodegenerative conditions, mean health care professionals are in a better position to provide person-centred care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Galvin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Tommy Gavin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Iain Mays
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Heverin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,National ALS/MND Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) presents many transitions for persons/people with ALS (PwALS) and their caregivers. Transitions are passages from one life phase, condition, or status to another. We used qualitative methods to understand how PwALS and caregivers experience transitions throughout their ALS journey. METHODS PwALS and their caregivers were recruited from a multidisciplinary ALS clinic in Edmonton, Canada. We recruited patients at the stage of ALS that home mechanical ventilation, a feeding tube, and/or assistive communication technology had been offered. Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS We interviewed 14 PwALS and 15 caregivers and identified 5 recurring themes. The importance of community was identified by many PwALS and caregivers who expressed feelings of loneliness and isolation. Most caregivers were spouses and couples navigated a change in their relationship roles as one spouse transitioned to becoming a caregiver while the other transitioned to dependency. The caregiver spouses reported a sense of "total responsibility" that encompassed continual vigilance for the PwALS's well-being, managing their household and finances. PwALS and caregivers reported transitioning to reliance on life-sustaining medical devices; early adoption and information on these devices increased their quality of life. Participants also wanted more and earlier information on advanced care planning. PwALS and caregivers identified adapting to new forms of communication as a necessity. CONCLUSION ALS presents many transitions for PwALS and caregivers. Understanding these transitions is important for ALS healthcare professionals who seek to implement best care practices.
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Quality of Life Structural Equation Model for Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Rehabil Nurs 2020; 46:253-261. [PMID: 32991398 DOI: 10.1097/rnj.0000000000000292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to propose and test a quality of life model among Korean patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) using structural equation modeling. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was performed. METHODS Data from 184 patients with ALS were collected from two university hospitals in Seoul and Busan, South Korea, between June and December 2018. FINDINGS The modified model indices indicated adequate data fit. Quality of life predictors were social support, physical functional status, depression, and general health perception. CONCLUSION This study improved the understanding of quality of life for Korean patients with ALS, including complex direct and indirect relationships among quality of life factors. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Depression was identified as the most influential factor in this population; hence, early assessment and timely intervention for depression are essential for better quality of life in patients with ALS.
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23
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Rojas P, Ramírez AI, Fernández-Albarral JA, López-Cuenca I, Salobrar-García E, Cadena M, Elvira-Hurtado L, Salazar JJ, de Hoz R, Ramírez JM. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Neurodegenerative Motor Neuron Disease With Ocular Involvement. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:566858. [PMID: 33071739 PMCID: PMC7544921 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.566858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes degeneration of the lower and upper motor neurons and is the most prevalent motor neuron disease. This disease is characterized by muscle weakness, stiffness, and hyperreflexia. Patients survive for a short period from the onset of the disease. Most cases are sporadic, with only 10% of the cases being genetic. Many genes are now known to be involved in familial ALS cases, including some of the sporadic cases. It has also been observed that, in addition to genetic factors, there are numerous molecular mechanisms involved in these pathologies, such as excitotoxicity, mitochondrial disorders, alterations in axonal transport, oxidative stress, accumulation of misfolded proteins, and neuroinflammation. This pathology affects the motor neurons, the spinal cord, the cerebellum, and the brain, but recently, it has been shown that it also affects the visual system. This impact occurs not only at the level of the oculomotor system but also at the retinal level, which is why the retina is being proposed as a possible biomarker of this pathology. The current review discusses the main aspects mentioned above related to ALS, such as the main genes involved, the most important molecular mechanisms that affect this pathology, its ocular involvement, and the possible usefulness of the retina as a biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Rojas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto Oftálmico de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I Ramírez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José A Fernández-Albarral
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés López-Cuenca
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Salobrar-García
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Cadena
- Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto Oftálmico de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Elvira-Hurtado
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan J Salazar
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa de Hoz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Ramírez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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24
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Zarotti N, Mayberry E, Ovaska-Stafford N, Eccles F, Simpson J. Psychological interventions for people with motor neuron disease: a scoping review. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2020; 22:1-11. [PMID: 32657152 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2020.1788094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Motor neuron disease (MND) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition with no known cure. MND can affect every aspect of a person's life and has been associated with a wide range of psychological difficulties, which can occur from pre-diagnosis through to the condition's later stages. However, very little research has been conducted on psychological interventions for people with MND (pwMND). This paper aimed to provide the first review specifically targeting psychological interventions in MND and offer potential directions for future research. Methods: A scoping review was carried out across five major databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Academic Search Ultimate, and Cochrane Library) until 1st of March 2020. Results: From an initial return of 1278 citations, 10 papers were included in the review. These included three randomized controlled trials (RCTs), two quasi-experiments, three uncontrolled pretest-post-test designs, one single case study, and one qualitative secondary analysis. The existing studies focused on a limited number of psychological outcomes and did not take into account site of MND onset or level of depression/anxiety before intervention. Implications for clinical practice are discussed and suggestions for future research are provided. Conclusions: The literature on psychological interventions is still extremely sparse. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based on the stress-coping model show promise in RCTs, but require further evaluation. The need for further development and evaluation of psychological interventions to improve the well-being of pwMND cannot be overstated, particularly as the struggle toward the discovery of an effective treatment for MND continues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Zarotti
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Emily Mayberry
- Sheffield Motor Neuron Disease Care Centre, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Fiona Eccles
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Jane Simpson
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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25
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Associations of Patient Mood, Modulators of Quality of Life, and Pharmaceuticals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Survival Duration. Behav Sci (Basel) 2020; 10:bs10010033. [PMID: 31936812 PMCID: PMC7016647 DOI: 10.3390/bs10010033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Associations of modulators of quality of life (QoL) and survival duration are assessed in the fatal motor neuron disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Major categories include clinical impression of mood (CIM); physical health; patient social support; and usage of interventions, pharmaceuticals, and supplements. Associations were assessed at p < 0.05 and p < 0.001 significance thresholds using applicable methods (Chi-square, t-test, ANOVA, logistical regression, random forests, Fisher’s exact test) within a retrospective cohort of 1585 patients. Factors significantly correlated with positive (happy or normal) mood included family support and usage of bi-level positive airway pressure (Bi-PAP) and/or cough assist. Decline in physical factors like presence of dysphagia, drooling, general pain, and decrease in ALSFRS-R total score or forced vital capacity (FVC) significantly correlated with negative (depressed or anxious) mood (p < 0.05). Use of antidepressants or pain medications had no association with ALS patient mood (p > 0.05), but were significantly associated with increased survival (p < 0.05). Positive patient mood, Bi-PAP, cough assist, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG), and accompaniment to clinic visits associated with increased survival duration (p < 0.001). Of the 47 most prevalent pharmaceutical and supplement categories, 17 associated with significant survival duration increases ranging +4.5 to +16.5 months. Tricyclic antidepressants, non-opioids, muscle relaxants, and vitamin E had the highest associative increases in survival duration (p < 0.05). Random forests, which examined complex interactions, identified the following pharmaceuticals and supplements as most predictive to survival duration: Vitamin A, multivitamin, PEG supplements, alternative herbs, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, stimulant laxatives, and antispastics. Statins, metformin, and thiazide diuretics had insignificant associations with decreased survival.
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26
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Burke T, Wilson O'Raghallaigh J, Maguire S, Galvin M, Heverin M, Hardiman O, Pender N. Group interventions for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis caregivers in Ireland: a randomised controlled trial protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e030684. [PMID: 31542756 PMCID: PMC6756338 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapid and fatal motor disease marked by progressive physical impairment due to muscle weakness and wasting. It is multidimensional with many patients presenting with cognitive and/or behavioural impairment. Caregivers of patients with ALS, commonly non-paid immediate family members, often take primary responsibility for the complex care needs of patients in non-medicalised setting, and many as a consequence experience caregiver burden, anxiety, and/or depression. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This randomised controlled trial (RCT) will use randomisation to allocate n=75 caregivers of patients with ALS from the national ALS clinic into three groups with an equal distribution. The RCT consists of two intervention groups and a wait list control (treatment as usual [TAU]) group. The intervention arms of the trial consist of a 'mindfulness-based stress reduction' and 'building better caregivers' manualised group-based intervention, with 9 and 6 weekly sessions, respectively. The TAU group will have access to intervention at the end of the trial period. Primary outcomes are self-report questionnaires on anxiety and depression symptoms, with caregiver burden and quality of life considered secondary outcomes. Assessment will commence at baseline, immediately following the intervention period, and after a period of 12 weeks to assess the effectiveness and efficacy of participating in an intervention. Patient cognitive and behavioural data will also be considered. Means of treatment and control groups at Time 0 and 1 will be analysed using mixed model multivariate analysis of variance followed by analysis of variance, and treatment effect-sizes will be calculated. This RCT protocol is pre-results and has been registered with an international database resulting in an International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Number (ISRCTN53226941). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was obtained from the Beaumont Hospital Medical Research Ethics Committee. Results of the main trial will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Burke
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Dublin Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Sinead Maguire
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Miriam Galvin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Dublin Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Heverin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Dublin Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Dublin Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niall Pender
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Dublin Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
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27
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Schlüter DK, Holland DP, Mills RJ, McDermott CJ, Williams TL, Young CA. Use of coping strategies in MND/ALS: Association with demographic and disease-related characteristics. Acta Neurol Scand 2019; 140:131-139. [PMID: 31058309 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understanding the use of coping strategies and which factors are associated with strategy utilization might help clinical staff anticipate which coping strategies individuals are more likely to utilize. In this study, we assess coping strategy use in the motor neuron disease (MND, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS]) population and examine associations of demographic and disease variables with individual coping strategies. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS A total of 233 participants with MND/ALS were recruited into the ongoing Trajectories of Outcomes in Neurological Conditions study from MND clinics across the United Kingdom. Participants completed a questionnaire pack collecting data on demographics and a range of patient-reported measures including the Coping Orientations to Problems Experienced scale. Associations between demographic and clinical characteristics and coping strategies were examined by simple and multiple ordinal logistic regression. RESULTS The most commonly used strategy was Acceptance, followed by Active Coping, Planning and Positive Re-interpretation and Growth. The least used strategies were Substance Use, Turning to Religion and Denial. Ten out of the fifteen strategies showed statistically significant associations with demographic and clinical characteristics. Most markedly, females were found to utilize many strategies more than males, namely Restraint, Seeking Instrumental Social Support, Seeking Emotional Social Support, Focus on and Venting of Emotions, Behavioural Disengagement and Mental Disengagement. CONCLUSION Clinical staff should be aware that coping strategy use is associated with several demographic and disease characteristics. Targeted advice on coping may improve coping capacity and facilitate psychosocial adjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Roger J Mills
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Walton Centre NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - Carolyn A Young
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Walton Centre NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK
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28
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Ando H, Cousins R, Young CA. Exploring and Addressing 'Concerns' for Significant Others to Extend the Understanding of Quality of Life With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Qualitative Study. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2019; 11:1179573519859360. [PMID: 31312086 PMCID: PMC6614934 DOI: 10.1177/1179573519859360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The absence of curative medication for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) makes palliative care and understanding quality of life (QoL) in ALS a clinical priority. Previous qualitative research has explored the concept of QoL in terms of illness impact on life perspectives and sense of self. Objective In this research, we explored 'concerns' - one of the four aspects in the World Health Organisation's conceptualisation of QoL - towards adding to the literature. Methods In-depth interviews with 26 individuals with ALS were subjected to thematic analysis involving both inductive and deductive approaches to explore participant's concerns, and to evaluate the relevance of their concerns for understanding QoL in ALS. Findings The analysis showed that concerns for significant others contribute to participant's QoL because of their existential value. It was important for participants to minimise the impact of limitations and burdens associated with ALS on significant others, even at a cost to self. Discussion The current study supports a holistic approach in service provision, ensuring the inclusion of relevant significant others. It is further suggested that clinicians explore the specifics of burdens perceived by patients in order to support them in minimising the burdens for their significant others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikari Ando
- Respiratory Laboratory, Aintree University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rosanna Cousins
- Department of Psychology, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, UK
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29
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Fisher P, Dodd R, Barrow E, Makin S, Cherry MG. Predictors of distress in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A systematic review. COGENT PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/23311908.2019.1608031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Fisher
- Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, Whelan Building, Brownlow Hill, L69 3GB, Liverpool, UK
- The Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, Prescott Road, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rachel Dodd
- Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, Whelan Building, Brownlow Hill, L69 3GB, Liverpool, UK
- Lower Lane, The Walton Centre, Sid Watkins Building, Liverpool, UK, L9 7BB
| | - Emma Barrow
- Lower Lane, The Walton Centre, Sid Watkins Building, Liverpool, UK, L9 7BB
| | - Selina Makin
- Lower Lane, The Walton Centre, Sid Watkins Building, Liverpool, UK, L9 7BB
| | - Mary Gemma Cherry
- Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, Whelan Building, Brownlow Hill, L69 3GB, Liverpool, UK
- The Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, Prescott Road, Liverpool, UK
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30
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Lulé D, Kübler A, Ludolph AC. Ethical Principles in Patient-Centered Medical Care to Support Quality of Life in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2019; 10:259. [PMID: 30967833 PMCID: PMC6439311 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is one of the primary goals of medical care to secure good quality of life (QoL) while prolonging survival. This is a major challenge in severe medical conditions with a prognosis such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Further, the definition of QoL and the question whether survival in this severe condition is compatible with a good QoL is a matter of subjective and culture-specific debate. Some people without neurodegenerative conditions believe that physical decline is incompatible with satisfactory QoL. Current data provide extensive evidence that psychosocial adaptation in ALS is possible, indicated by a satisfactory QoL. Thus, there is no fatalistic link of loss of QoL when physical health declines. There are intrinsic and extrinsic factors that have been shown to successfully facilitate and secure QoL in ALS which will be reviewed in the following article following the four ethical principles (1) Beneficence, (2) Non-maleficence, (3) Autonomy and (4) Justice, which are regarded as key elements of patient centered medical care according to Beauchamp and Childress. This is a JPND-funded work to summarize findings of the project NEEDSinALS (www.NEEDSinALS.com) which highlights subjective perspectives and preferences in medical decision making in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothée Lulé
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Andrea Kübler
- Interventional Psychology, Psychology III, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Regan L, Preston NJ, Eccles FJR, Simpson J. The views of adults with neurodegenerative diseases on end-of-life care: a metasynthesis. Aging Ment Health 2019; 23:149-157. [PMID: 29105497 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1396578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Improving end-of-life care for people with neurodegenerative diseases is seen as a clinical priority. In order to do this, it is important to take into account the views expressed by people with these conditions on their experiences of this care. The purpose of this review was to provide a thematic synthesis of the views of adults with neurodegenerative diseases on end-of-life care. METHODS After a systematic search, 13 articles were included and thematic synthesis was used to collate and interpret findings. RESULTS Four analytical themes were identified; (1) Importance of autonomy and control; (2) Informed decision-making and the role of healthcare professionals; (3) Contextual factors in decision-making; (4) The pitfalls of care. CONCLUSION Participants' views were framed by the context of their lives and experience of their illness and these shaped their engagement with end-of-life care. Given the varying disease trajectories, care needs to be individualised and needs-based, implementing palliative care in a timely way to prevent crises and loss of autonomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Regan
- a Division of Health Research , Lancaster University , Lancaster , UK
| | - Nancy J Preston
- a Division of Health Research , Lancaster University , Lancaster , UK
| | - Fiona J R Eccles
- a Division of Health Research , Lancaster University , Lancaster , UK
| | - Jane Simpson
- a Division of Health Research , Lancaster University , Lancaster , UK
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Prell T, Gaur N, Stubendorff B, Rödiger A, Witte OW, Grosskreutz J. Disease progression impacts health-related quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol Sci 2018; 397:92-95. [PMID: 30597420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2018.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the impact of disease progression on health-related quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS A total of 161 patients with ALS were enrolled. Assessments included the revised ALS Functional Rating Scale and the ALS Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-40). Data analysis comprised linear regression and multivariate analyses. RESULTS ALSFRS-R score (β = 0.75, p < 0.001), depression (β = 0.08, p < 0.001), pain (β = 0.07, p < 0.001), hopelessness (β = 0.07, p = 0.001), and progression rate (β = 0.02, p = 0.02) explained 76% of the ALSAQ-40 summary index variance. Progression rate alone explained 7% of the ALSAQ-40 summary index variance. The subdomains of emotional well-being, followed by ADL, and finally communication and eating were most strongly influenced by progression rate. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates the importance of physical health for emotional well-being. In particular, slower disease progression is associated with higher levels of emotional well-being in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tino Prell
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Healthy Ageing, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
| | - Nayana Gaur
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Annekathrin Rödiger
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Otto W Witte
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Healthy Ageing, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Julian Grosskreutz
- Hans Berger Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Healthy Ageing, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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Schlüter DK, Tennant A, Mills R, Diggle PJ, Young CA. Risk factors for social withdrawal in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neurone disease. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2018; 19:591-598. [DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2018.1508477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela K. Schlüter
- Centre for Health informatics, Computing and Statistics (CHICAS), Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK,
| | - Alan Tennant
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland,
| | - Roger Mills
- Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK,
| | - Peter J. Diggle
- Centre for Health informatics, Computing and Statistics (CHICAS), Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK,
| | - Carolyn A. Young
- Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK,
- University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Moore A, Young CA, Hughes DA. Mapping ALSFRS-R and ALSUI to EQ-5D in Patients with Motor Neuron Disease. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2018; 21:1322-1329. [PMID: 30442280 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) is the preferred measure of health outcome in clinical trials in motor neuron disease (MND). It, however, does not provide a preference-based health utility score required for estimating quality-adjusted life-years in economic evaluations for health technology assessments. OBJECTIVES To develop algorithms for mapping from measures used in MND clinical studies to allow for future prediction of the five-level EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) utility in populations of patients with MND when utility data have not been collected. METHODS Direct mapping models were developed using ordinary least squares and Tobit regression analyses to estimate EQ-5D-5L utilities (based on English tariffs), with ALSFRS-R total, domain, and item scores used as explanatory variables, using patient-level data from a UK cohort study. Indirect mapping models were also used to map EQ-5D-5L domains, using the same variables, along with the Neuropathic Pain Scale and the Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale for MND using multinomial logistic regression analysis. Goodness of fit was assessed along with predicted values for each mapping model. RESULTS The best-performing model predicting EQ-5D-5L utilities used five items of the ALSFRS-R items as explanatory variables in a stepwise ordinary least squares regression. The mean squared error was 0.0228, and the mean absolute error was 0.1173. Prediction was good, with 55.4% of estimated values within 0.1 and 91.4% within 0.25 of the observed EQ-5D-5L utility value. Indirect mapping using the Neuropathic Pain Scale and the Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale for MND provided less predictive power than direct mapping models. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to present mapping algorithms to crosswalk between ALSFRS-R and EQ-5D-5L. This analysis demonstrates that the ALSFRS-R can be used to estimate EQ-5D-5L utilities when they have not been collected directly within a trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Moore
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | | | - Dyfrig A Hughes
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, Bangor University, Bangor, UK.
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35
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Ethical challenges in tracheostomy-assisted ventilation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2018; 265:2730-2736. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-9054-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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36
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Linse K, Aust E, Joos M, Hermann A. Communication Matters-Pitfalls and Promise of Hightech Communication Devices in Palliative Care of Severely Physically Disabled Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2018; 9:603. [PMID: 30100896 PMCID: PMC6072854 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease, leading to progressive paralysis, dysarthria, dysphagia, and respiratory disabilities. Therapy is mostly focused on palliative interventions. During the course of the disease, verbal as well as nonverbal communicative abilities become more and more impaired. In this light, communication has been argued to be “the essence of human life” and crucial for patients' quality of life. High-tech augmentative and alternative communication (HT-AAC) technologies such as eyetracking based computer devices and brain-computer-interfaces provide the possibility to maintain caregiver-independent communication and environmental control even in the advanced disease state of ALS. Thus, they enable patients to preserve social participation and to independently communicate end-of-life-decisions. In accordance with these functions of HT-AAC, their use is reported to strengthen self-determination, increase patients' quality of life and reduce caregiver burden. Therefore, HT-AAC should be considered as standard of (palliative) care for people with ALS. On the other hand, the supply with individually tailored HT-AAC technologies is limited by external and patient-inherent variables. This review aims to provide an overview of the possibilities and limitations of HT-AAC technologies and discuss their role in the palliative care for patients with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Linse
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Elisa Aust
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Markus Joos
- Interactive Minds Dresden GmbH, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Anneser J, Arenz V, Borasio GD. Neurological Symptoms in Palliative Care Patients. Front Neurol 2018; 9:275. [PMID: 29922212 PMCID: PMC5996882 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neurological expertise in palliative care may be required not only for patients with primary neurological disorders but also for patients with non-neurological diseases suffering from burdensome neurological symptoms. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of neurological diagnoses and symptoms in palliative care patients, as well as the related burden and impact on everyday life. Methods We analyzed retrospectively the medical records of 255 consecutive patients from a tertiary medical center, at the time point of referral to an inpatient palliative care consultation service. In addition, 100 patients prospectively answered a questionnaire which included the assessment of neurological symptoms, as well as numeric rating scales for quality of life, symptom-specific burden, and restrictions in everyday life. Results Forty-one patients (16%) suffered from a primary neurological disease. Most decisions regarding the termination of life-sustaining measures concerned this group (20/22, 91%). Neurological symptoms (excluding pain) were documented in 122 patients (48%) with an underlying non-neurological disease. In the questionnaire study, 98/100 patients reported at least one neurological or neuropsychiatric symptom, most frequently sleeping problems (N = 63), difficulty concentrating (N = 55), and sensory symptoms (N = 50). Vertigo/dizziness (N = 19) had the greatest impact on everyday life (7.57/10 ± 2.17) and the highest symptom-specific burden (7.14 ± 2.51). Difficulty concentrating (restrictions in everyday life/burden) and pain intensity were the only symptoms significantly correlated with quality of life (r = -0.36, p = 0.009/r = -0.32; p = 0.04; r = -0.327, p = 0.003). Conclusion Neurological diseases and symptoms are frequent among palliative care patients and are often associated with a high symptom burden, which may severely affect the patients' lives. It is thus of paramount importance to implement neurological expertise in palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Anneser
- Palliative Care Team, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Victoria Arenz
- Palliative Care Team, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gian Domenico Borasio
- Service de Soins palliatifs et de support, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Burke T, Hardiman O, Pinto-Grau M, Lonergan K, Heverin M, Tobin K, Staines A, Galvin M, Pender N. Longitudinal predictors of caregiver burden in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a population-based cohort of patient-caregiver dyads. J Neurol 2018; 265:793-808. [PMID: 29396678 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-018-8770-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Caregiver burden is a recognised consequence of caring for a patient with neurodegeneration. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) differs from other neurodegenerations by its rapid progression and impairment of motor, cognitive, and behavioural function, which contribute to caregiver burden. However, longitudinal factors that determine the extent of caregiver burden, and in particular the impact of psychological distress among caregivers, have not been fully established. METHODS Patients with ALS (n = 85) and their primary caregivers (n = 85) completed three serial evaluations. Caregiver burden was measured using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Anxiety and depression were evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The Edinburgh Cognitive-Behavioural ALS Screen (ECAS) was used to determine cognitive function in patients. The ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R) measured disease progression. RESULTS Using the ZBI, caregivers were categorised as high or low burden. In the low burden group, anxiety scores from the HADS predicted caregiver burden (r = 0.410, F = 3.73, p = 0.033), whereas the depression sub-score from the HADS was predictive of caregiver burden in the high burden group (r = 0.501, F = 5.87, p = 0.006) for cross-sectional analyses. Longitudinally, an elevated score on the HADS at Time 1 was the largest predictor of caregiver burden across serial assessments. CONCLUSION In a patient cohort with relatively preserved cognitive function (65%), anxiety and depression at Time 1, as measured by the HADS, were the best predictors of caregiver burden at Time 3. This observation provides a mechanism by which caregiver burden can be identified by health-care professionals and a stepped care programme of intervention initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Burke
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland. .,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland.,Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Marta Pinto-Grau
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Katie Lonergan
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Mark Heverin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Katy Tobin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Anthony Staines
- School of Nursing and Human Sciences, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Miriam Galvin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Niall Pender
- Department of Psychology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.,Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin 2, Ireland
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The interplay between inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA damage, DNA repair and mitochondrial dysfunction in depression. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 80:309-321. [PMID: 28669580 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidant-antioxidant imbalance may play a significant role in the development and progression of depression. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species - a result of oxidant-antioxidant imbalance - may lead to increased damage of biomolecules, including DNA. This was confirmed in depressed patients in a research study conducted by our team and other scientists. 8-oxoguanine - a marker of oxidative DNA damage - was found in the patients' lymphocytes, urine and serum. These results were confirmed using a comet assay on lymphocytes. Furthermore, it was shown that the patients' cells repaired peroxide-induced DNA damage less efficiently than controls' cells and that some single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of the genes involved in oxidative DNA damage repair may modulate the risk of depression. Lastly, less efficient DNA damage repair observed in the patients can be, at least partly, attributed to the presence of specific SNP variants, as it was revealed through a genotype-phenotype analysis. In conclusion, the available literature shows that both oxidative stress and less efficient DNA damage repair may lead to increased DNA damage in depressed patients. A similar mechanism may result in mitochondrial dysfunction, which is observed in depression.
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Jakobsson Larsson B, Ozanne AG, Nordin K, Nygren I. A prospective study of quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Acta Neurol Scand 2017; 136:631-638. [PMID: 28523721 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTS The aim of this prospective and longitudinal study was to describe individual quality of life in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and its correlations with physical function and emotional well-being from diagnosis and over time. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-six patients were included in the study. Individual quality of life was measured with the Schedule of Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life-Direct Weighting (SEIQoL-DW), illness severity was assessed using the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALS FRS-R), and emotional distress was measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Data were collected from diagnosis and thereafter, every six months for a period of two years. Twelve patients completed the 24-month follow-up. RESULTS Family, friends and own physical health were important for overall quality of life, from diagnosis and during the disease progression. Most patients had good quality of life, which remained stable, despite changed physical functions. Several patients scored above the cut-off score for doubtful and clinical anxiety and depression early on after diagnosis, and there was a significant decrease in anxiety over time. Soon after diagnosis, there was a correlation between depression and quality of life. CONCLUSION The family, social relations and own physical health are important for overall quality of life in patients with ALS. Thus, supporting the family and facilitating so that patients can continue to stay in contact with friends are important aspects during the disease. Conducting an early screening for depression can be important for preventing decreased quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Jakobsson Larsson
- Department of Neuroscience; Neurology; Uppsala University Hospital; Uppsala Sweden
| | - A. G. Ozanne
- Neurology; Clinical Neuroscience; Sahlgrenska Universitetssjukhus; Göteborg Sweden
| | - K. Nordin
- Department of Global Health and Primary Care; Uppsala University; Uppsala Sweden
| | - I. Nygren
- Department of Neuroscience; Neurology; Uppsala University Hospital; Uppsala Sweden
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Caga J, Hsieh S, Highton-Williamson E, Zoing MC, Ramsey E, Devenney E, Ahmed RM, Kiernan MC. Apathy and its impact on patient outcome in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2017; 265:187-193. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-017-8688-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Linse K, Rüger W, Joos M, Schmitz-Peiffer H, Storch A, Hermann A. Usability of eyetracking computer systems and impact on psychological wellbeing in patients with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2017; 19:212-219. [PMID: 29092645 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2017.1392576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Restrictions in communicative abilities are well known in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but only few approaches in terms of evaluation of supportive technologies have been made. We aimed to assess the use and perceived usability of eye-tracking computer devices (ETCS) of severely impacted patients with ALS in an independent, direct manner and relate it to psychological well-being. ETCS enable active communication and social participation in the quadriplegic and anarthric disease state. Therefore, ETCS-based versions of widely used psychosocial questionnaires (ADI-12, SeiQoL-DW, WHO-5) as well as structured questions on communicative functioning and ETCS usage were developed to assess ALS patients, their next of kin and professional caregivers. Eleven patients (ALSFRS-R: 5.3 ± 5.9; ALS duration: 6.5 ± 3.8 years, range 1‒12; 82% invasively ventilated), nine next of kin and 10 professional caregivers could be assessed. Patients reported a mean use of their personal ETCS of 9.1 h per d (range 0.5‒16), with a high user satisfaction, preservation of communicative abilities and subjective indispensability of the ETCS. ETCS use was associated with higher psychological well-being. Next of kin and professional caregivers also nominated some critical aspect, which remains to be clarified. Our results strengthen the evidence that preserved mental autonomy influences psychological well-being in ALS and might even modify disease course and end-of-life-decisions in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Linse
- a Department of Neurology , Technische Universität Dresden , Dresden , Germany.,c German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Research Site Dresden , Dresden , Germany , and
| | | | - Markus Joos
- b Interactive Minds Research , Dresden , Germany
| | | | - Alexander Storch
- a Department of Neurology , Technische Universität Dresden , Dresden , Germany.,c German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Research Site Dresden , Dresden , Germany , and.,d Department of Neurology , University of Rostock , Rostock , Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- a Department of Neurology , Technische Universität Dresden , Dresden , Germany.,c German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Research Site Dresden , Dresden , Germany , and
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Pinto S, de Carvalho M. Health Status Perspectives in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. NEURODEGENER DIS 2017; 17:323-329. [PMID: 29084402 DOI: 10.1159/000480638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The global perception of the health status (HS) of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients before the initial diagnosis has not been addressed previously. METHODS We recorded the following at the first visit, before diagnostic information: (1) visual analog scale (VAS) of the EQ-5D; (2) the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS- R), bulbar (ALSFRSb), upper limb (ALSFRSul), lower limb (ALSFRSll), and respiratory (RofALSFRS-R) subscores; and (3) forced and slow vital capacities. Correlations were tested by the Pearson correlation test. Variables were compared between groups defined by the VAS median value. p < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Of the 156 patients included in the study (91 spinal-onset, 49 bulbar-onset, 16 axial/respiratory-onset; 95 men; mean onset age 63.9 ± 13 years; mean disease duration 18.4 ± 26.5 months), HS VAS was significantly lower in spinal-onset patients (p = 0.047), and particularly in spinal-onset women (p = 0.027). Disease duration had no influence. HS VAS was moderately correlated with ALSFRS, ALSFRSul and ALSFRSll (0.4 < r < 0.5, p < 0.01), weakly correlated with RofALSFRS-R in the whole population (r = 0.171, p < 0.05), and not correlated with ALSFRSb or the respiratory tests. ALSFRSb was similar between groups defined by the HS VAS median value, but the other scores were significantly lower for poorer HS values. CONCLUSION HS before diagnosis is mostly dependent on the perception of upper and lower limb function. A tool tailored to evaluate HS in bulbar-onset patients should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Pinto
- Institute of Physiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Bock M, Duong YN, Kim A, Allen I, Murphy J, Lomen-Hoerth C. Progression and effect of cognitive-behavioral changes in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neurol Clin Pract 2017; 7:488-498. [PMID: 29431172 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background To prospectively evaluate the progression of cognitive-behavioral function in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and examine the association of cognitive-behavioral deficits with disease progression, patient quality of life (QOL), and caregiver burden. Methods We evaluated cognitive-behavioral function using the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Cognitive Behavioral Screen at enrollment and after 7 months in a cohort of patients with ALS. Paired t tests were used to evaluate the change in the 2 assessments. Linear regression and Kruskal-Wallis tests were applied to investigate how initial cognitive or behavioral status related to outcomes. Results The mean test-retest interval was 6.8 months (SD 1.6). Cognitive status of the study population (n = 49) overall did not change over the study period (p = 0.06) despite progression of motor weakness (p < 0.001), though small subsets of the sample demonstrate cognitive change. Patients initially classified as behaviorally normal showed increased behavioral problems over time (t = -2.8, p = 0.009). Decline in cognitive (β = -1.3, p = 0.03) and behavioral (β = -0.76, p = 0.002) status predicted increasing caregiver burden. Behavioral abnormalities predicted decline in forced vital capacity and ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised score (p = 0.008, 0.012) in the study population and patient QOL in the most severely affected group (t = 4.3, p = 0.003). Conclusions Cognitive-behavioral change is a key aspect of disease heterogeneity in ALS. Executive function in ALS overall remains stable over 7 months as detected by an administered screening tool. However, patients may develop caregiver-reported behavioral symptoms in that time period. Screening for caregiver-reported symptoms has a particular utility in predicting future clinical decline, increased caregiver burden, and worsening patient QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Bock
- Departments of Neurology (MB, Y-ND, AK, JM, CL-H) and Epidemiology and Biostatistics (IA), University of California, San Francisco
| | - Y-Nhy Duong
- Departments of Neurology (MB, Y-ND, AK, JM, CL-H) and Epidemiology and Biostatistics (IA), University of California, San Francisco
| | - Anthony Kim
- Departments of Neurology (MB, Y-ND, AK, JM, CL-H) and Epidemiology and Biostatistics (IA), University of California, San Francisco
| | - Isabel Allen
- Departments of Neurology (MB, Y-ND, AK, JM, CL-H) and Epidemiology and Biostatistics (IA), University of California, San Francisco
| | - Jennifer Murphy
- Departments of Neurology (MB, Y-ND, AK, JM, CL-H) and Epidemiology and Biostatistics (IA), University of California, San Francisco
| | - Catherine Lomen-Hoerth
- Departments of Neurology (MB, Y-ND, AK, JM, CL-H) and Epidemiology and Biostatistics (IA), University of California, San Francisco
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Linse K, Rüger W, Joos M, Schmitz-Peiffer H, Storch A, Hermann A. Eye-tracking-based assessment suggests preserved well-being in locked-in patients. Ann Neurol 2017; 81:310-315. [PMID: 28074605 DOI: 10.1002/ana.24871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We assessed quality of life (QoL) and psychological well-being in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-induced locked-in state and their next of kin in a fully unbiased manner using eye-tracking computer systems. Eleven of 30 screened patients and 9 next of kin completed study procedures. Patients reported good QoL, which appeared to be at the cost of the QoL of their next of kin. Next of kin rated their own or patients' QoL similarly, but they identified different areas as important as compared with patients. Our results are of importance for the discussion of end-of-life decisions and the evaluation of patients' presumed wishes as well as for psychosocial interventions. Ann Neurol 2017;81:310-315.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Linse
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden
| | | | | | | | - Alexander Storch
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dresden Research Site, Dresden.,Department of Neurology, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dresden Research Site, Dresden
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Lange DJ, Shahbazi M, Silani V, Ludolph AC, Weishaupt JH, Ajroud-Driss S, Fields KG, Remanan R, Appel SH, Morelli C, Doretti A, Maderna L, Messina S, Weiland U, Marklund SL, Andersen PM. Pyrimethamine significantly lowers cerebrospinal fluid Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with SOD1 mutations. Ann Neurol 2017; 81:837-848. [PMID: 28480639 PMCID: PMC5518287 DOI: 10.1002/ana.24950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Revised: 04/30/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) reduction prolongs survival in SOD1‐transgenic animal models. Pyrimethamine produces dose‐dependent SOD1 reduction in cell culture systems. A previous phase 1 trial showed pyrimethamine lowers SOD1 levels in leukocytes in patients with SOD1 mutations. This study investigated whether pyrimethamine lowered SOD1 levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in patients carrying SOD1 mutations linked to familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS/SOD1). Methods A multicenter (5 sites), open‐label, 9‐month‐duration, dose‐ranging study was undertaken to determine the safety and efficacy of pyrimethamine to lower SOD1 levels in the CSF in fALS/SOD1. All participants underwent 3 lumbar punctures, blood draw, clinical assessment of strength, motor function, quality of life, and adverse effect assessments. SOD1 levels were measured in erythrocytes and CSF. Pyrimethamine was measured in plasma and CSF. Appel ALS score, ALS Functional Rating Scale–Revised, and McGill Quality of Life Single‐Item Scale were measured at screening, visit 6, and visit 9. Results We enrolled 32 patients; 24 completed 6 visits (18 weeks), and 21 completed all study visits. A linear mixed effects model showed a significant reduction in CSF SOD1 at visit 6 (p < 0.001) with a mean reduction of 13.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 8.4–18.5) and at visit 9 (p < 0.001) with a mean reduction of 10.5% (95% CI = 5.2–15.8). Interpretation Pyrimethamine is safe and well tolerated in ALS. Pyrimethamine is capable of producing a significant reduction in total CSF SOD1 protein content in patients with ALS caused by different SOD1 mutations. Further long‐term studies are warranted to assess clinical efficacy. Ann Neurol 2017;81:837–848
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale J Lange
- Department of Neurology, Hospital for Special Surgery/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Mona Shahbazi
- Department of Neurology, Hospital for Special Surgery/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Vincenzo Silani
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Italian Auxological Institute, Milan, Italy.,Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Kara G Fields
- Hospital for Special Surgery Healthcare Research Institute, New York, NY
| | - Rahul Remanan
- Department of Neurology, Hospital for Special Surgery/Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | - Claudia Morelli
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Italian Auxological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Doretti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Italian Auxological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Maderna
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Italian Auxological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Messina
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Italian Auxological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Peter M Andersen
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.,Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Trojsi F, Siciliano M, Russo A, Passaniti C, Femiano C, Ferrantino T, De Liguoro S, Lavorgna L, Monsurrò MR, Tedeschi G, Santangelo G. Theory of Mind and Its Neuropsychological and Quality of Life Correlates in the Early Stages of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Psychol 2016; 7:1934. [PMID: 28018269 PMCID: PMC5149517 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2016.01934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to explore the potential impairment of Theory of Mind (ToM; i.e., the ability to represent cognitive and affective mental states to both self and others) and the clinical, neuropsychological and Quality of Life (QoL) correlates of these cognitive abnormalities in the early stages of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a multisystem neurodegenerative disease recently recognized as a part of the same clinical and pathological spectrum of frontotemporal lobar degeneration. Twenty-two consecutive, cognitively intact ALS patients, and 15 healthy controls, underwent assessment of executive, verbal comprehension, visuospatial, behavioral, and QoL measures, as well as of the ToM abilities by Emotion Attribution Task (EAT), Advanced Test of ToM (ATT), and Eyes Task (ET). ALS patients obtained significantly lower scores than controls on EAT and ET. No significant difference was found between the two groups on ATT. As regard to type of ALS onset, patients with bulbar onset performed worse than those with spinal onset on ET. Correlation analysis revealed that EAT and ET were positively correlated with education, memory prose, visuo-spatial performances, and “Mental Health” scores among QoL items. Our results suggest that not only “cognitive” but also “affective” subcomponents of ToM may be impaired in the early stages of ALS, with significant linkage to disease onset and dysfunctions of less executively demanding conditions, causing potential impact on patients’ “Mental Health.”
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Trojsi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Mattia Siciliano
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli"Naples, Italy; Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli"Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonio Russo
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Passaniti
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Caserta, Italy
| | - Cinzia Femiano
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Ferrantino
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania De Liguoro
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Lavorgna
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Maria R Monsurrò
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Gioacchino Tedeschi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences - MRI Research Center SUN-FISM, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Santangelo
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Caserta, Italy
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48
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Oh J, Hong GRS, Kim SH, Kim JA. Translation and Psychometric Evaluation of a Korean Version of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Specific Quality of Life – Revised. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2016; 18:92-98. [DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2016.1249885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juyeon Oh
- Division of Nursing, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea,
- Cell therapy Center for Intractable Disorders, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea, and
| | | | - Seung Hyun Kim
- Cell therapy Center for Intractable Disorders, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea, and
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung A Kim
- Division of Nursing, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea,
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49
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Foley G. What are the Care Needs for People with Motor Neurone Disease and How Can Occupational Therapists Respond to Meet These Needs? Br J Occup Ther 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/030802260707000108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Motor neurone disease is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder and from disease onset health care intervention is palliative in nature. Numerous studies on wellbeing in motor neurone disease are consistent with the palliative care literature, where the values assigned to non-physical life domains increase with disease progression. Occupational therapists should consider all components of wellbeing for people with motor neurone disease and not physical disability alone. A better understanding of motor neurone disease and an awareness of the service needs important to this client group are necessary to improve the quality of care and to assist occupational therapists in meeting care needs.
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Carter GT, Weiss MD, Lou JS, Jensen MP, Abresch RT, Martin TK, Hecht TW, Han JJ, Weydt P, Kraft GH. Modafinil to treat fatigue in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: An open label pilot study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2016; 22:55-9. [PMID: 15736608 DOI: 10.1177/104990910502200112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An open label trial of modafinil was conducted to determine whether it would be tolerated and effective in treating fatigue for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Fifteen patients with ALS were treated for two weeks with either 200 mg or 400 mg of modafinil. Reported side effects of the medication were mild and included diarrhea, headache, nervousness, and insomnia. Side effects did not result in any study dropouts. Following treatment, mean scores on the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) decreased from 51.3 (SD 9.2) to 42.8 (SD 10.2). On the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), mean scores decreased from 8.2 (SD 2.0) to 4.5 (SD 2.4). Reductions in both the FSS and the ESS were significant at p < 0.001. Mean scores on the self-report version of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM-SR) increased from 115.2 (SD 5.6) to 118.1 (SD 5.4), with p < 0.01. This pilot study suggests that modafinil is well-tolerated and may reduce symptoms of fatigue in ALS. Further blinded, controlled studies of modafinil in larger numbers of ALS patients are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory T Carter
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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