[Intensive care of tumor patients]

Abstract

There is no substantial difference in the prognosis of cancer patients after intensive care compared to certain other groups of patients except for the tumor patient with major respiratory problems. Hence, the general refusal of intensive care for cancer patients is not justified. Rather indication for intensive care needs careful examination of several aspects including medical science and ethics. Particular ethical problems arising in intensive care for cancer patients can be reduced by open communication between the medical team and the patient as well as between the medical specialists.