Identification of PTSD in cancer survivors

Author(s): Pelcovitz, D., Axelrod, A., Goldenberg, B., Harris, H., Meyers, B., Grobois, B., Mandel, F., Septimus, A., Kaplan, S.

Journal/Book: Psychosomatics. 1996; 37: 1400 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005. Amer Psychiatric Association. 137-143.

Abstract: The authors measured the rate and determinants of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a group Of cancer survivors. Patients who had a history of cancer diagnosis with at least 3 years since diagnosis, receiving no active treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation, were interviewed (N = 27). Patients, who were part of the DSM-IV PTSD field trial, were compared with a community-based control group matched for age and socioeconomic status. One member of the survivor group (4%) and no members of the control group met criteria for current PTSD (NS). Six of the survivors (22%) and no control subjects met lifetime criteria (P < 0.02). Cancer patients have a higher rate of PTSD than found in the community. Symptoms closely resemble those of individuals who have experienced other traumatic events.

Note: Article CL Alter, Temple Univ, Ctr Canc, 3322 N Broad St, POB 38346, Philadelphia, PA 19140 USA

Keyword(s): ACUTE-LEUKEMIA SURVIVORS; HODGKINS-DISEASE; CONVENTIONAL CHEMOTHERAPY; PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENT; PSYCHOSOCIAL ADAPTATION; MARROW TRANSPLANTATION; MASTECTOMY; IMPACT

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