1
|
Kerry E, Collett N, Gunn J. The impact of expert by experience involvement in teaching in a DClinPsych programme; for trainees and experts by experience. Health Expect 2023; 26:2098-2108. [PMID: 37448178 PMCID: PMC10485345 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is a growing acknowledgement of the value of creating partnerships between those delivering and those accessing health services. Less is known about this in the context of clinical psychology doctoral training programmes. This study explores the models of involvement of experts by experience (EbEs) in teaching on a DClinPsych course in England; the impact of this both for EbEs and trainee clinical psychologists and whether improvements are required to better meet their needs. METHODS An audit of current involvement was conducted by reviewing course records. Two survey questionnaires designed around commonly used frameworks of participation and reflective learning were completed by EbEs and trainees. Thematic Analysis was used to evaluate the written feedback from the surveys. RESULTS Records of current EbE involvement were found to be lacking in detail and sometimes missing. Key themes extrapolated from the surveys highlighted the importance of EbE involvement in supporting the wellbeing of EbEs and the learning experiences of trainees. CONCLUSIONS Recommendations with regard to the processes for future involvement of EbEs in teaching are put forward. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION A carer of a service user was consulted about the design of the participant information sheet, consent form and the survey questionnaire which was sent to the EbEs. A trainee clinical psychologist was also consulted to provide a trainee perspective on the above forms and the survey questionnaire that was sent to trainees. Further to this, the first author's supervisor identifies as a user of physical and mental health services and provided continued supervision and support regarding the direction of the study including the research questions, design, methodology and interpretation of results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Kerry
- Oxford Institute for Clinical Psychology ResearchUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Nicola Collett
- Oxford Institute for Clinical Psychology ResearchUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Jason Gunn
- Oxford Institute for Clinical Psychology ResearchUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Waite F, Diamond R, Collett N, Bold E, Chadwick E, Freeman D. Body image concerns in patients with persecutory delusions. Psychol Med 2023; 53:4121-4129. [PMID: 35387699 PMCID: PMC10317811 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722000800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persecutory fears build on feelings of vulnerability that arise from negative views of the self. Body image concerns have the potential to be a powerful driver of feelings of vulnerability. Body image concerns are likely raised in patients with psychosis given the frequent weight gain. We examined for the first-time body esteem - the self-evaluation of appearance - in relation to symptom and psychological correlates in patients with current persecutory delusions. METHODS One-hundred and fifteen patients with persecutory delusions in the context of non-affective psychosis completed assessments of body image, self-esteem, body mass index (BMI), psychiatric symptoms and well-being. Body esteem was also assessed in 200 individuals from the general population. RESULTS Levels of body esteem were much lower in patients with psychosis than non-clinical controls (d = 1.2, p < 0.001). In patients, body esteem was lower in women than men, and in the overweight or obese BMI categories than the normal weight range. Body image concerns were associated with higher levels of depression (r = -0.55, p < 0.001), negative self-beliefs (r = -0.52, p < 0.001), paranoia (r = -0.25, p = 0.006) and hallucinations (r = -0.21, p = 0.025). Body image concerns were associated with lower levels of psychological wellbeing (r = 0.41, p < 0.001), positive self-beliefs (r = 0.40, p < 0.001), quality of life (r = 0.23, p = 0.015) and overall health (r = 0.31, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Patients with current persecutory delusions have low body esteem. Body image concerns are associated with poorer physical and mental health, including more severe psychotic experiences. Improving body image for patients with psychosis is a plausible target of intervention, with the potential to result in a wide range of benefits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Waite
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Rowan Diamond
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicola Collett
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Emily Bold
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Daniel Freeman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Greenwood KE, Gurnani M, Ward T, Vogel E, Vella C, McGourty A, Robertson S, Sacadura C, Hardy A, Rus‐Calafell M, Collett N, Emsley R, Freeman D, Fowler D, Kuipers E, Bebbington P, Dunn G, Michelson D, Garety P. The service user experience of SlowMo therapy: A co-produced thematic analysis of service users' subjective experience. Psychol Psychother 2022; 95:680-700. [PMID: 35445520 PMCID: PMC9873386 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES SlowMo is the first blended digital therapy for paranoia, showing significant small-moderate reductions in paranoia in a recent large-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT). This study explored the subjective service-user experience of the SlowMo therapy content and design; the experience of the blended therapy approach, including the triangle of the therapeutic alliance; and the experience of the digital aspects of the intervention. DESIGN Qualitative co-produced sub-study of an RCT. METHODS Participants were 22 adult service users with schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis and persistent distressing paranoia, who completed at least one SlowMo therapy session and a 24-week follow-up, at one of 3 sites in Oxford, London, and Sussex, UK. They were interviewed by peer researchers, using a topic guide co-produced by the Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) team. The transcribed data were analysed thematically. Multiple coding and triangulation, and lay peer researcher validation were used to reach a consensus on the final theme structure. RESULTS Six core themes were identified: (i) starting the SlowMo journey; (ii) the central role of the supportive therapist; (iii) slowing things down; (iv) value and learning from social connections; (v) approaches and challenges of technology; and (vi) improvements in paranoia and well-being. CONCLUSIONS For these service users, slowing down for a moment was helpful, and integrated into thinking over time. Learning from social connections reflected reduced isolation, and enhanced learning through videos, vignettes, and peers. The central role of the supportive therapist and the triangle of alliance between service user, therapist, and digital platform were effective in promoting positive therapeutic outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn E. Greenwood
- School of PsychologyUniversity of SussexBrightonUK,Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation TrustWorthingUK
| | | | - Tom Ward
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Evelin Vogel
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation TrustWorthingUK
| | - Claire Vella
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation TrustWorthingUK
| | | | | | | | - Amy Hardy
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | | | | | - Richard Emsley
- Department of Biostatistics and Health InformaticsInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK
| | - Daniel Freeman
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK,Department of PsychiatryOxford UniversityOxfordUK
| | - David Fowler
- School of PsychologyUniversity of SussexBrightonUK,Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation TrustWorthingUK
| | - Elizabeth Kuipers
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | | | - Graham Dunn
- Centre for BiostatisticsSchool of Health SciencesManchester Academic Health Science CentreThe University of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | | | - Philippa Garety
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ward T, Hardy A, Holm R, Collett N, Rus‐Calafell M, Sacadura C, McGourty A, Vella C, East A, Rea M, Harding H, Emsley R, Greenwood K, Freeman D, Fowler D, Kuipers E, Bebbington P, Garety P. SlowMo therapy, a new digital blended therapy for fear of harm from others: An account of therapy personalisation within a targeted intervention. Psychol Psychother 2022; 95:423-446. [PMID: 35019210 PMCID: PMC9306634 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES SlowMo therapy is a pioneering blended digital therapy for paranoia, augmenting face-to-face therapy with an interactive 'webapp' and a mobile app. A recent large-scale trial demonstrated small-moderate effects on paranoia alongside improvements in self-esteem, worry, well-being and quality of life. This paper provides a comprehensive account of therapy personalisation within this targeted approach. DESIGN Case examples illustrate therapy delivery and descriptive data are presented on personalised thought content. METHOD Thought content was extracted from the webapp (n = 140 participants) and coded using newly devised categories: Worries: (1) Persecutory, (2) Negative social evaluation, (3) Negative self-concept, (4) Loss/life stresses, (5) Sensory-perceptual experiences and (6) Health anxieties. Safer thoughts: (1) Safer alternative (specific alternatives to worries), (2) Second-wave (generalised) coping, (3) Positive self-concept, (4) Positive activities and (5) Third-wave (mindfulness-based) coping. Data on therapy fidelity are also presented. RESULTS Worries: 'Persecutory' (92.9% of people) and 'Negative social evaluation' (74.3%) were most common. 'General worries/ life stresses' (31.4%) and 'Negative self-concept' (22.1%) were present in a significant minority; 'Health anxieties' (10%) and 'Sensory-perceptual' (10%) were less common. Safer thoughts: 'Second-wave (general) coping' (85%), 'Safer alternatives' (76.4%), 'Positive self-concept' (65.7%) and 'Positive activities' (64.3%) were common with 'Third-wave' (mindfulness) coping observed for 30%. Fidelity: Only three therapy withdrawals were therapy related. Session adherence was excellent (mean = 15.2/16; SD = 0.9). Behavioural work was conducted with 71% of people (119/168). CONCLUSION SlowMo therapy delivers a targeted yet personalised approach. Potential mechanisms of action extend beyond reasoning. Implications for cognitive models of paranoia and causal interventionist approaches are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Ward
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Amy Hardy
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Rebecca Holm
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK
| | - Nicola Collett
- Department of PsychiatryOxford UniversityOxfordUK,Oxford Health NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK,Oxford Institute of Clinical Psychology Training and ResearchOxford UniversityOxfordUK
| | - Mar Rus‐Calafell
- Department of PsychiatryOxford UniversityOxfordUK,Oxford Health NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK,Mental Health Research and Treatment CenterFaculty of PsychologyRuhr‐Universität BochumBochumGermany
| | | | | | - Claire Vella
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation TrustWorthingUK,School of PsychologyUniversity of SussexBrightonUK
| | - Anna East
- Department of PsychiatryOxford UniversityOxfordUK,Oxford Health NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK
| | - Michaela Rea
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK
| | - Helen Harding
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Richard Emsley
- Department of Biostatistics and Health InformaticsInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Daniel Freeman
- Department of PsychiatryOxford UniversityOxfordUK,Oxford Health NHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK
| | - David Fowler
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation TrustWorthingUK,School of PsychologyUniversity of SussexBrightonUK
| | - Elizabeth Kuipers
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Philippa Garety
- Department of PsychologyInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonLondonUK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Greenwood K, Robertson S, Vogel E, Vella C, Ward T, McGourty A, Sacadura C, Hardy A, Rus-Calafell M, Collett N, Emsley R, Freeman D, Fowler D, Kuipers E, Bebbington P, Dunn G, Garety P. The impact of Patient and Public Involvement in the SlowMo study: Reflections on peer innovation. Health Expect 2021; 25:191-202. [PMID: 34585482 PMCID: PMC8849241 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SlowMo study demonstrated the effects of SlowMo, an eight-session digitally supported reasoning intervention, on paranoia in a large-scale randomized-controlled trial with 362 participants with schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis. AIM The current evaluation aimed to investigate the impact of Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in the SlowMo study. METHOD PPI members were six women and three men from Sussex, Oxford and London with experience of using mental health services for psychosis. They received training and met at least 3-monthly throughout the project. The impact of PPI was captured quantitatively and qualitatively through (i) a PPI log of recommendations and implementation; (ii) written subjective experiences of PPI members; (iii) meeting minutes; and (iv) outputs produced. RESULTS The PPI log revealed 107 recommendations arising from PPI meetings, of which 87 (81%) were implemented. Implementation was greater for recruitment-, data collection- and organization-related actions than for dissemination and emergent innovations. Qualitative feedback revealed impacts on study recruitment, data collection, PPI participants' confidence, knowledge, career aspirations and society more widely. Outputs produced included a film about psychosis that aired on BBC primetime television, novel webpages and journal articles. Barriers to PPI impact included geography, travel, funding, co-ordination and well-being. DISCUSSION A future challenge for PPI impact will be the extent to which peer innovation (innovative PPI-led ideas) can be supported within research study delivery. PATIENT AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Planned Patient and Public Contribution in SlowMo comprised consultation and collaboration in (i) design, (ii) recruitment, (iii) qualitative interviews and analysis of service users' experiences of SlowMo therapy and (iv) dissemination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Greenwood
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.,Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Sam Robertson
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Evelin Vogel
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Claire Vella
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Thomas Ward
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Cat Sacadura
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Amy Hardy
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | - Richard Emsley
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Freeman
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - David Fowler
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.,Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Elizabeth Kuipers
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Paul Bebbington
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Graham Dunn
- Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Philippa Garety
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Freeman D, Emsley R, Diamond R, Collett N, Bold E, Chadwick E, Isham L, Bird JC, Edwards D, Kingdon D, Fitzpatrick R, Kabir T, Waite F. Comparison of a theoretically driven cognitive therapy (the Feeling Safe Programme) with befriending for the treatment of persistent persecutory delusions: a parallel, single-blind, randomised controlled trial. Lancet Psychiatry 2021; 8:696-707. [PMID: 34246324 PMCID: PMC8311296 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(21)00158-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a large clinical need for improved treatments for patients with persecutory delusions. We aimed to test whether a new theoretically driven cognitive therapy (the Feeling Safe Programme) would lead to large reductions in persecutory delusions, above non-specific effects of therapy. We also aimed to test treatment effect mechanisms. METHODS We did a parallel, single-blind, randomised controlled trial to test the Feeling Safe Programme against befriending with the same therapists for patients with persistent persecutory delusions in the context of non-affective psychosis diagnoses. Usual care continued throughout the duration of the trial. The trial took place in community mental health services in three UK National Health Service trusts. Participants were included if they were 16 years or older, had persecutory delusions (as defined by Freeman and Garety) for at least 3 months and held with at least 60% conviction, and had a primary diagnosis of non-affective psychosis from the referring clinical team. Patients were randomly assigned to either the Feeling Safe Programme or the befriending programme, using a permuted blocks algorithm with randomly varying block size, stratified by therapist. Trial assessors were masked to group allocation. If an allocation was unmasked then the unmasked assessor was replaced with a new masked assessor. Outcomes were assessed at 0 months, 6 months (primary endpoint), and 12 months. The primary outcome was persecutory delusion conviction, assessed within the Psychotic Symptoms Rating Scale (PSYRATS; rated 0-100%). Outcome analyses were done in the intention-to-treat population. Each intervention was provided individually over 6 months. This trial is registered with the ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN18705064. FINDINGS From Feb 8, 2016, to July 26, 2019, 130 patients with persecutory delusions (78 [60%] men; 52 [40%] women, mean age 42 years [SD 12·1, range 17-71]; 86% White, 9% Black, 2% Indian; 2·3% Pakistani; 2% other) were recruited. 64 patients were randomly allocated to the Feeling Safe Programme and 66 patients to befriending. Compared with befriending, the Feeling Safe Programme led to significant end of treatment reductions in delusional conviction (-10·69 [95% CI -19·75 to -1·63], p=0·021, Cohen's d=-0·86) and delusion severity (PSYRATS, -2·94 [-4·58 to -1·31], p<0·0001, Cohen's d=-1·20). More adverse events occurred in the befriending group (68 unrelated adverse events reported in 20 [30%] participants) compared with the Feeling Safe group (53 unrelated adverse events reported in 16 [25%] participants). INTERPRETATION The Feeling Safe Programme led to a significant reduction in persistent persecutory delusions compared with befriending. To our knowledge, these are the largest treatment effects seen for patients with persistent delusions. The principal limitation of our trial was the relatively small sample size when comparing two active treatments, meaning less precision in effect size estimates and lower power to detect moderate treatment differences in secondary outcomes. Further research could be done to determine whether greater effects could be possible by reducing the hypothesised delusion maintenance mechanisms further. The Feeling Safe Programme could become the recommended psychological treatment in clinical services for persecutory delusions. FUNDING NIHR Research Professorship and NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Freeman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.
| | - Richard Emsley
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Rowan Diamond
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicola Collett
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Emily Bold
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Eleanor Chadwick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Louise Isham
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Jessica C Bird
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Danielle Edwards
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - David Kingdon
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Ray Fitzpatrick
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Felicity Waite
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Garety P, Ward T, Emsley R, Greenwood K, Freeman D, Fowler D, Kuipers E, Bebbington P, Rus-Calafell M, McGourty A, Sacadura C, Collett N, James K, Hardy A. Effects of SlowMo, a Blended Digital Therapy Targeting Reasoning, on Paranoia Among People With Psychosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry 2021; 78:714-725. [PMID: 33825827 PMCID: PMC8027943 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.0326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Persistent paranoia is common among patients with psychosis. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychosis can be effective. However, challenges in engagement and effectiveness remain. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects on paranoia and mechanisms of action of SlowMo, a digitally supported reasoning intervention, plus usual care compared with usual care only. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This parallel-arm, assessor-blinded, randomized clinical trial recruited participants at UK community health services from May 1, 2017, to May 14, 2019. Eligible participants consisted of a referral sample with schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis and distressing, persistent (≥3 months) paranoia. INTERVENTIONS Individuals were randomized 1:1 to SlowMo, consisting of 8 digitally supported face-to-face sessions and a mobile app, plus usual care (n = 181) and usual care only (n = 181). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was paranoia, measured by the Green et al Paranoid Thoughts Scale (GPTS) total score at 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes included GPTS total score at 12 weeks and GPTS Part A (reference) and Part B (persecutory) scores, the Psychotic Symptom Rating Scales (PSYRATS Delusion subscale), reasoning (belief flexibility, possibility of being mistaken [Maudsley Assessment of Delusions, rated 0%-100%]), and jumping to conclusions (Beads Task). RESULTS A total of 361 participants were included in intention-to-treat analysis, of whom 252 (69.8%) were male and 249 (69.0%) were White; the mean (SD) age was 42.6 (11.6) years. At 24 weeks, 332 participants (92.0%) provided primary outcome data. Of 181 participants in the SlowMo group, 145 (80.1%) completed therapy. SlowMo plus usual care was not associated with greater reductions than usual care in GPTS total score at 24 weeks (Cohen d, 0.20; 95% CI, -0.02 to 0.40; P = .06). There were significant effects on secondary paranoia outcomes at 12 weeks, including GPTS total score (Cohen d, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.09-0.51; P = .005), Part A score (Cohen d, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.06-0.39; P = .009), and Part B score (Cohen d, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.08-0.56; P = .009), and at 24 weeks, including Part B score (Cohen d, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.01-0.49; P = .04) but not Part A score (Cohen d, 0.12; 95% CI, -0.05 to 0.28; P = .18). Improvements were observed in an observer-rated measure of persecutory delusions (PSYRATS delusion) at 12 weeks (Cohen d, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.17-0.78; P = .002) and 24 weeks (Cohen d, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.20-0.80; P = .001) and belief flexibility at 12 weeks (Cohen d, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.09-0.49; P = .004) and 24 weeks (Cohen d, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.08-0.49; P = .005). There were no significant effects on jumping to conclusions. Improved belief flexibility and worry mediated paranoia change (range mediated, 36%-56%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE SlowMo did not demonstrate significant improvements in the primary measure of paranoia at 24 weeks; however, a beneficial effect of SlowMo on paranoia was indicated by the results on the primary measure at an earlier point and on observer-rated paranoia and self-reported persecution at 12 and 24 weeks. Further work to optimize SlowMo's effects is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION isrctn.org Identifier: ISRCTN 32448671.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippa Garety
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,South London and Maudsley NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Ward
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,South London and Maudsley NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Emsley
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn Greenwood
- University of Sussex School of Psychology, Brighton, United Kingdom,Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Freeman
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - David Fowler
- University of Sussex School of Psychology, Brighton, United Kingdom,Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Kuipers
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,South London and Maudsley NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Bebbington
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mar Rus-Calafell
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom,Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Alison McGourty
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nicola Collett
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom,Oxford Institute of Clinical Psychology Training and Research, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty James
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Hardy
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom,South London and Maudsley NHS (National Health Service) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rosebrock LE, Waite F, Diamond R, Collett N, Bold E, Chadwick E, Teale AL, Freeman D. Anticipatory pleasure in current psychosis: Cognitive and emotional correlates. Psychiatry Res 2021; 297:113697. [PMID: 33465523 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Anticipation of pleasure - a key aspect of hedonic experience - is a motivating factor for engaging in activities. Low levels of anticipatory pleasure and activity are found in individuals with psychosis. Cognitive factors (e.g., working memory and IQ) have been a focus of explanation for anticipation of pleasure in psychosis. However, cognitive factors do not fully account for such difficulties. It is plausible that emotional factors (e.g., depression, self-beliefs) also contribute. We examined anticipatory pleasure in relation to cognitive and emotional processes in patients with current psychosis. 128 patients with persecutory delusions in the context of non-affective psychosis completed assessments of anticipatory pleasure, cognitive functioning, emotional processes, and activity. Lower anticipatory pleasure was significantly associated with depression, insomnia, negative-self beliefs, suicidal ideation, poorer psychological wellbeing, and paranoia-related avoidance. There were no significant associations with working memory, physical activity, or meaningful activity. Emotional factors may play a more significant role than cognitive difficulties in the experience of anhedonia in psychosis. However, the cross-sectional design precludes causal inferences. Future research should examine whether, for example, improving self-concept or reducing paranoia-related avoidance leads to improvement in anticipatory pleasure in patients with psychosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laina E Rosebrock
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Felicity Waite
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rowan Diamond
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Collett
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Bold
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor Chadwick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ashley-Louise Teale
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Freeman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Waite F, Diamond R, Collett N, Chadwick E, Bold E, Teale AL, Taylor KM, Kirkham M, Twivy E, Causier C, Carr L, Bird JC, Černis E, Isham L, Freeman D. The comments of voices on the appearance of patients with psychosis: 'the voices tell me that I am ugly'. BJPsych Open 2019; 5:e86. [PMID: 31537204 PMCID: PMC6788219 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2019.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are high rates of obesity and low self-esteem in patients with psychosis. The occurrence of negative voice content directly about appearance is therefore plausible. Derogatory comments about appearance are likely to be distressing, increase depression and contribute to social withdrawal. AIMS To systematically assess the occurrence of voice content regarding appearance and identify correlates. METHOD Sixty patients experiencing verbal auditory hallucinations at least once a week in the context of non-affective psychosis completed a measure assessing positive and negative voice content about appearance. They also completed assessments about body image, self-esteem, psychiatric symptoms and well-being. RESULTS Fifty-five (91.7%) participants reported hearing voices comment on their appearance. A total of 54 (90%) patients reported negative voice content about their appearance with 30 (50%) patients experienced negative appearance comments on a daily basis. The most common negative comment was 'the voices tell me that I am ugly' (n = 48, 80%). There were 39 (65%) patients who reported positive voice content on appearance. The most frequent positive comment was 'I look as nice as other people' (n = 26, 43.3%). Negative voice content about appearance was associated with body image concerns, paranoia, voice hearing severity, depression, worry, negative self-beliefs and safety-seeking behaviours. Positive appearance voice content was associated with greater body esteem and well-being and lower levels of depression and insomnia. CONCLUSIONS Voice content about appearance is very common for patients seen in clinical services. Negative voice content may reflect - and subsequently reinforce - negative beliefs about one's appearance, low self-esteem, worry and paranoia. DECLARATION OF INTEREST None.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Waite
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Rowan Diamond
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Nicola Collett
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Eleanor Chadwick
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Emily Bold
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Ashley-Louise Teale
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Kathryn M Taylor
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Miriam Kirkham
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Eve Twivy
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Chiara Causier
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Lydia Carr
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Jessica C Bird
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Emma Černis
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Louise Isham
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Daniel Freeman
- Professor of Clinical Psychology, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Freeman D, Morrison A, Bird JC, Chadwick E, Bold E, Taylor KM, Diamond R, Collett N, Černis E, Isham L, Lister R, Kirkham M, Teale AL, Twivy E, Waite F. The weeks before 100 persecutory delusions: the presence of many potential contributory causal factors. BJPsych Open 2019; 5:e83. [PMID: 31526411 PMCID: PMC6749142 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2019.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The period before the formation of a persecutory delusion may provide causal insights. Patient accounts are invaluable in informing this understanding. AIMS To inform the understanding of delusion formation, we asked patients about the occurrence of potential causal factors - identified from a cognitive model - before delusion onset. METHOD A total of 100 patients with persecutory delusions completed a checklist about their subjective experiences in the weeks before belief onset. The checklist included items concerning worry, images, low self-esteem, poor sleep, mood dysregulation, dissociation, manic-type symptoms, aberrant salience, hallucinations, substance use and stressors. Time to reach certainty in the delusion was also assessed. RESULTS Most commonly it took patients several months to reach delusion certainty (n = 30), although other patients took a few weeks (n = 24), years (n = 21), knew instantly (n = 17) or took a few days (n = 6). The most frequent experiences occurring before delusion onset were: low self-confidence (n = 84); excessive worry (n = 80); not feeling like normal self (n = 77); difficulties concentrating (n = 77); going over problems again and again (n = 75); being very negative about the self (n = 75); images of bad things happening (n = 75); and sleep problems (n = 75). The average number of experiences occurring was high (mean 23.5, s.d. = 8.7). The experiences clustered into six main types, with patients reporting an average of 5.4 (s.d. = 1.0) different types. CONCLUSIONS Patients report numerous different experiences in the period before full persecutory delusion onset that could be contributory causal factors, consistent with a complex multifactorial view of delusion occurrence. This study, however, relied on retrospective self-report and could not determine causality. DECLARATION OF INTEREST None.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Freeman
- Professor of Clinical Psychology, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Anthony Morrison
- Professor of Clinical Psychology, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust; and Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Jessica C Bird
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Eleanor Chadwick
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Emily Bold
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Kathryn M Taylor
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Rowan Diamond
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Nicola Collett
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Emma Černis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Louise Isham
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Rachel Lister
- Research Clinical Psychologist, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Miriam Kirkham
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | - Eve Twivy
- Research Assistant, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Felicity Waite
- Research Clinical Psychologist, University of Oxford; and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Freeman D, Bold E, Chadwick E, Taylor KM, Collett N, Diamond R, Černis E, Bird JC, Isham L, Forkert A, Carr L, Causier C, Waite F. Suicidal ideation and behaviour in patients with persecutory delusions: Prevalence, symptom associations, and psychological correlates. Compr Psychiatry 2019; 93:41-47. [PMID: 31319194 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine the prevalence of suicidal ideation and behaviour - and their correlates - in patients with persecutory delusions. METHODS 110 patients with persecutory delusions in the context of non-affective psychosis were assessed for suicidal thoughts and behaviours over the past month. Symptom and psychological assessments were also completed. RESULTS The severity of suicidal ideation was: no suicidal ideation (n = 26, 23.6%); wish to be dead (n = 21, 19.1%); nonspecific active suicidal thoughts (n = 14, 12.7%); suicidal thoughts with methods but no intent (n = 29, 26.4%); suicidal thoughts with intent but no specific plan (n = 13, 11.8%); and suicidal intent with plan (n = 7, 6.4%). In the past month, five patients (4.5%) had made an actual, interrupted, or aborted suicide attempt. The severity of suicidal ideation was associated with higher levels of depression, paranoia, hallucinations, anger, insomnia, negative beliefs about the self and others, pessimism, worry, and delusion safety-seeking behaviours and lower levels of psychological well-being and reward responsiveness. Severity of ideation was not associated with cannabis or alcohol use, working memory, pain, or meaningful activity levels. CONCLUSIONS Patients with persecutory delusions are typically in a severe state of psychological stress, and at risk of suicide, as indicated by very high levels of suicidal ideation. This exploratory study also identifies correlates of suicidal ideation that could be investigated in causal research designs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Freeman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
| | - Emily Bold
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Nicola Collett
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Rowan Diamond
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Emma Černis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Jessica C Bird
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Louise Isham
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Ava Forkert
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Lydia Carr
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | - Felicity Waite
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Collett N, Pugh K, Waite F, Freeman D. Negative cognitions about the self in patients with persecutory delusions: An empirical study of self-compassion, self-stigma, schematic beliefs, self-esteem, fear of madness, and suicidal ideation. Psychiatry Res 2016; 239:79-84. [PMID: 27137965 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.02.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There has been growing awareness of the high prevalence of negative cognitions about the self in patients with persecutory delusions, and it has been proposed that paranoid fears build upon these perceived vulnerabilities. This study aimed to investigate for the first time a wide range of different conceptualisations of the negative self, and to examine associations with suicidal ideation, in patients with persecutory delusions. Twenty-one patients with persecutory delusions and twenty-one non-clinical individuals completed measures relating to negative self cognitions. The delusions group also completed a measure of suicidal ideation. It was found that the patients with persecutory delusions had low self-compassion, low self-esteem, increased fears of being mad, beliefs of inferiority to others, negative self-schemas, and low positive self-schemas when compared to the non-clinical control group. The effect sizes (Cohen's d) were large, and the different conceptualisations of negative self cognitions were highly associated with one another. Self-stigma did not differ between the two groups. Furthermore, suicidal ideation was highly associated with low self-compassion, low self-esteem, fears of madness, and negative self-schema but not self-stigma. This study shows marked negative self cognitions in patients with persecutory delusions. These are likely to prove targets of clinical interventions, with patient preference most likely determining the best conceptualisation of negative self cognitions for clinicians to use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Collett
- The Oxford Institute of Clinical Psychology Training, University of Oxford, Isis Education Centre, Roosevelt Drive, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK.
| | - Katherine Pugh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Felicity Waite
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Daniel Freeman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Douglas-Jones AG, Collett N, Morgan JM, Jasani B. Comparison of core oestrogen receptor (ER) assay with excised tumour: intratumoral distribution of ER in breast carcinoma. J Clin Pathol 2001; 54:951-5. [PMID: 11729216 PMCID: PMC1731334 DOI: 10.1136/jcp.54.12.951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The use of the H score (involving the assessment of intensity and distribution of positivity) on sections stained for the oestrogen receptor (ER) by immunocytochemistry (ICC) allows different samples to be compared and detailed correlations to be made between hormone receptor expression and morphology. This study assessed the reliability of core biopsy in predicting ER expression in the same tumour excised later at treatment. The distribution of ER within excised tumours was investigated. METHODS The distribution of ER positivity was investigated in 51 diagnostic core biopsies and across the diameter of 51 subsequently excised tumours in a field by field (magnification, x40; field diameter, 0.4 mm) assessment using the semiquantitive H scoring system. RESULTS The ER H score in diagnostic core biopsy was significantly higher (p = 0.05, paired rank test; overall mean, 130; n = 51) than the mean in the corresponding excised tumour (mean, 110; n = 51). There was a significant downward trend in ER positivity from the periphery of tumours towards the centre (p = 0.001). The reduction of ER positivity was 6 H score units (2%)/mm. If core biopsies were orientated with the tumour edge at one end no change in ER positivity with field number along the length of the core could be demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS ER estimation in core biopsies correlated well with expression in tumours but ER expression was higher in the core biopsies than in the excised tumours. ER expression was higher at the periphery of tumours than at the centre. The higher ER expression in cores may reflect the higher chance of sampling the peripheral part of a tumour using a needle core.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A G Douglas-Jones
- Department of Pathology, University of Wales College of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF14 4XN, UK.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|