P01.008 Feasibility of a structured tumor related epilepsy education intervention in adult gliomas

Abstract

Objective: NA Background: Tumor-related epilepsy (TRE) occurs in over 50% of glioma patients, is the most common cause of hospitalizations and leads to increased cost, health care utilization and distress. We designed a structured TRE-specific education intervention aimed at patients and caregivers. We evaluated the feasibility of incorporating this into clinical practice while assessing the effect on distress and baseline TRE knowledge. Design/Methods: We prospectively enrolled glioma patients (with or without TRE) and caregivers on an IRB approved study. Subjects underwent a pre-test to assess baseline knowledge regarding seizure management. A neuro-oncology provider guided subjects through a short presentation focused on home care and management of acute symptomatic seizures. Distress was measured before and after the educational intervention using a distress thermometer. A post-test was also completed. At two and six months, distress was re-assessed and post-tests were repeated. Subject satisfaction was assessed following the intervention using Likert scales and qualitative feedback. Results: 50 subjects (23 patients, 27 caregivers) were enrolled. Median age was 59. 52% of patients had TRE. Patient tumors were glioblastoma (58.3%), anaplastic astrocytoma (25%) and anaplastic oligodendroglioma (16.7%). Median time to completion of distress assessments, pretest, intervention and post-test was 21.5 minutes. Median baseline distress scores were 2/10 for patients and 5/10 for caregivers. Distress scores decreased by a mean of 1.5 points for all subjects between the initial and two-month visit. Median pre-test and post-test scores regarding TRE knowledge for all subjects were 7/9 and 9/9, respectively. All subjects considered the education understandable. 98% of subjects strongly agreed that the education was helpful and informative. Caregivers reported more distress despite better baseline seizure knowledge than patients. Conclusions: Structured TRE education is feasible, reduces distress and improves awareness regarding seizure management. It should be considered in all glioma patients and their caregivers. Further prospective studies are warranted.