Quality of life after high-dose brachytherapy in patients with early oral carcinoma

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of head and neck tumors has continually increased over the past decades, which is a serious medical and social problem. This study retrospectively assessed the quality of life of patients with early-stage oral cavity tumors after high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy. Material and Methods: Quality of life was evaluated in 14 patients with early-onset oral cavity tumors who underwent HDR brachytherapy at the Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, University Hospital Hradec Kralove. The standardized EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-H&N 35 questionnaires were used. Patients completed these questionnaires at 12 months after treatment. Results: The general health status was scored 70 points using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Fatigue, insomnia, loss of appetite, dyspnea, and financial problems were the most severe problems reported. The main problems identified by the EORTC QLQ-H&N 35 questionnaire were weight gain, coughing, pain, sticky saliva, and difficulties eating in public . On the contrary, patients did not significantly suffer weight loss, speech impairments, difficulties in mouth opening or swallowing, or sensory problems. Conclusion: HDR brachytherapy is an effective treatment for early oral cancer that leaves patients with an acceptable quality of life. A prospective, multicentric study focused on the quality of life of patients with head and neck tumors is required.