HRQoL in 62 Diffuse Low-Grade Glioma Patients During Stable Non-Treatment Phase

Overview

This cross-sectional study assessed health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in 62 patients with diffuse low-grade glioma (LGG) during a stable, non-treatment phase. Compared to normative populations, LGG patients exhibited significant impairments in multiple HRQoL domains, with factors such as tumor characteristics and psychological status influencing outcomes.

Background

Diffuse low-grade gliomas are slow-growing brain tumors typically diagnosed around age 40, with a median survival up to 14 years. Management aims to delay progression to high-grade glioma while preserving quality of life through multimodal treatments. HRQoL encompasses physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and symptom-related dimensions, which can be affected by tumor and treatment factors as well as psychological and social variables. Existing literature focuses mainly on acute phases, with limited data on HRQoL during stable, non-therapeutic periods when patients seek to resume daily life.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• LGG patients in a stable, non-treatment phase report significantly lower physical, emotional, and cognitive functioning compared to normative populations.
• Fatigue, anxiety, and depression symptoms are prevalent and significantly elevated in this patient group.
• Tumor-related factors such as location, volume, and molecular profile influence HRQoL outcomes.
• Psychological distress related to future uncertainty and fear of relapse contributes to impaired HRQoL.
• Long-term side effects of prior treatments may persist and negatively impact daily functioning and well-being.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should recognize that even during stable, non-treatment phases, LGG patients experience substantial HRQoL impairments, particularly in cognitive and emotional domains. Routine assessment of psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression is essential to provide supportive care. Tailored interventions addressing fatigue and cognitive dysfunction may improve overall quality of life in this population.

Conclusion

This study highlights persistent HRQoL challenges faced by LGG patients during stable phases without active treatment, underscoring the need for comprehensive, multidisciplinary care approaches that address both physical and psychological aspects to optimize patient well-being.

References

1. EORTC QLQ-C30 and BN20 Questionnaires -- EORTC Quality of Life Group
2. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) -- Zigmond & Snaith, 1983
3. Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) Criteria -- Wen et al., 2010