Life beyond a diagnosis of glioblastoma: a systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Background: The median survival of glioblastoma is 12-14 months with less than 10% of patients surviving at least 2 years from diagnosis. Patients diagnosed with glioblastoma face poor prognosis, significant symptom burden, and high care needs. The aim of this study is to undertake a literature review to document the issues encountered by long-term survivors of glioblastoma, a small but important subset of patients.

Methods: MEDLINE, PsychInfo, and EMBASE were searched with core concepts: (1) glioblastoma, (2) survivor, and (3) terms pertaining to survivorship issues. A thematic analysis was undertaken of the three included studies.

Results: Long-term survivors of glioblastoma encounter neurologic deficits, impairment in cognition, psychological distress, reduced social function, and future uncertainty. These issues result in the inability to return to work and financial difficulties. Independence in activities of daily living, working memory, and overall quality of life appears to be preserved.

Conclusions: Long-term survivors of glioblastoma continue to have significant symptom burden and care needs. There is currently a paucity of literature surrounding this topic. Further research is required to accurately describe these issues in order for improved supportive care to be implemented in the community and the outpatient setting.

Implications for cancer survivors: Understanding the issues faced by long-term survivor of glioblastoma will provide insight into the care needs of patients as well as support networks required for patients and their carers.

Keywords: Glioblastoma; Quality of life; Survivor.