The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.

SMJ // Article

Perspectives

Know Your Guidelines 2022 Series: The ASCO Management of Dyspnea in Advanced Cancer Guideline Review

Authors: Christopher D. Jackson, MD, Alana J. Schilthuis, MD, Kenneth C. Guice, DO, Katie S. Payne, MD, Tracey D. Dabal, MD

Abstract

Dyspnea is a subjective, yet complex experience of breathlessness, even in the absence of overt hypoxia. Although the pathophysiology of dyspnea is not fully understood, abnormalities of sensation in the brainstem, chest wall, and lungs play a role. Because of the limits of objective findings, many clinicians easily overlook this vital symptom.1 Air hunger can severely affect the quality of life of patients with advanced cancer. Estimates suggest that 70% of this patient population experiences dyspnea.2
Posted in: Medical Oncology69

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