A research on symptoms of skin toxicity induced by immunotherapy in patients with lung cancer

  Objective  To explore the effect of multidisciplinary symptom management on symptoms of skin toxicity caused by immunotherapy in patients with lung cancer.

  Methods  A total of 115 lung cancer patients with immunotherapy in Department of Oncology in Shanghai Chest Hospital were selected and treated with symptom management measures of drug and non-drug treatments in combination. Drug interventions included anti-allergy and steroid drugs, while non-drug interventions included relaxation therapy and application of emollients.

  Results  After the implementation of symptom management, the rash and pruritus symptoms caused by immunotherapy alleviated compared with before intervention (P < 0.05), and the rash and pruritus degree in most patients was grade 1 to 2. Except for social and family status, the physiological status, emotional status, functional status and additional attention of patients were significantly better than those before symptom management (P < 0.05).

  Conclusion  Standardized skin toxicity management can improve the symptom experience of lung cancer patients and improve the qualities of life of patients.