Quality of life before and one year following stem cell transplantation using an individualized and a standardized instrument

Abstract

Objective: The aim was to prospectively measure quality of life in patients with malignant blood disorders following stem cell transplantation (SCT) using an individualized and a standardized measure.

Methods: Twenty-two consecutive patients were assessed before and one year following SCT, using a generic and disease-related version of the Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life-Direct Weighting (SEIQoL-DW) and the EORTC QLQ-C30. Results of the QLQ-C30 were compared with Swedish norm values.

Results: A majority of the patients reported concerns related to health before as well as one year after SCT, recorded by both instruments. Mean scores produced by the SEIQoL-DW, and four scales of the EORTC QLQ-C30, showed a change over time, indicating improved quality of life one year after SCT. In comparison with Swedish norm values for the EORTC QLQ-C30, SCT recipients reported a worse functioning.

Conclusions: In addition to well-known disease and treatment-related problems, areas not typically included in standardized instruments were nominated in the disease-related SEIQoL-DW. Such areas included positive aspects, e.g. a changed view of life and oneself. The results support the use of the generic and disease-related SEIQoL-DW to achieve a comprehensive picture of patient's clinical situation under treatment or when recovering from illness.