Long-term impact of adult WHO grade II or III gliomas on health-related quality of life: A systematic review

Background: Glioma diagnosis can be devastating and result in a range of symptoms. Relatively little is known about the long-term health-related quality of life (HRQOL) challenges faced by these patients. Establishing the impact of diagnosis on HRQOL could help positively tailor clinical decision making regarding patient support and treatment. The aim of this review is to identify the long-term HRQOL issues reported at least 2 years following diagnosis of WHO grade II/III glioma.

Method: Systematic literature searches were carried out using Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science Core Collection. Searches were designed to identify patient self-reports on HRQOL aspects defined as physical, mental, or social issues. Quality assessment was conducted using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Narrative synthesis was used to collate findings.

Results: The search returned 8923 articles. Two hundred seventy-eight titles remained after title and abstract screening, with 21 full-text articles included in the final analysis. The majority of studies used quantitative methods, with 3 articles reporting mixed methodology. Negative emotional/psychological/cognitive changes were the most commonly reported. Physical complaints included fatigue, seizures, and restricted daily activity. Social challenges included strained social relationships and financial problems. Patient coping strategies were suggested to influence patient's survival quality.

Conclusion: The consequences of a glioma diagnosis and treatment can have substantial implications for patients' long-term HRQOL and daily functioning. Findings from this review lay the groundwork for efforts to improve patient HRQOL in long-term survivorship.