Engelsk titel: Occurrence and diagnosis of psychiatric conditions in palliative medicine
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Författare:
Loge JH
;
Kaasa S
Språk: Nor
Antal referenser: 48
Dokumenttyp:
Översikt
UI-nummer: 00112308
Sammanfattning
BACKGROUND : The aims of the study are to describe the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in palliative care and how to diagnose these disorders.
MATERIAL AND METHODS : Literature search including cancer patients, palliative care, psychiatric conditions and diagnostics.
RESULTS : Neuropsychiatric conditions such as delirium, dementia and amnestic disorder are prevalent (> 20%), especially in the terminal phase. Anxiety and depressive symptoms are also common and may be caused by the patients' medical condition. Probably less than 10% have anxiety or depressive disorders. However, methodological limitations make comparisons across studies difficult. The interview is the main basis for assessment of mental status. Doctor-centered interviewing techniques are needed in the assessment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Emotional symptoms are best explored by open-ended questions and facilitating techniques. Psychiatric somatic symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue or insomnia are not valid diagnostic criteria. Selfreport questionnaires and short-form screening instruments are best suited for monitoring the course of the disorders, but must be adapted for this specific population.
INTERPRETATION : Neuropsychiatric conditions are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in palliative care. Good interviewing skills are the main element in the diagnostic workup.