INTRODUCTION
Supportive oncodermatology is a growing field that provides treatment and preventive care to oncology patients who experience dermatologic adverse events (dAEs) secondary to cytotoxic and targeted cancer treatments. Novel cancer therapies that impede the proliferation of cancer cells often target other rapidly proliferating organ systems and can lead to unfavorable skin, hair, and nail alterations. The most commonly documented dAEs include papulopustular rash, xerosis, pruritus, nail changes, chemotherapy-induced alopecia, and hand-foot skin reaction.1,2 Persistent dermatologic side effects may be disabling and are associated with negative psychosocial effects affecting patient confidence and functionality.3-6 Further, over 50% of cancer patients experience an interruption in therapy secondary to dAEs.7 With an estimated 1.8 million new cancer diagnoses made in 2019,8 all patients receiving anticancer therapy may be vulnerable to dAEs and the consequent impacts on wellness and treatment adherence.
DAEs caused by anticancer agents have been recognized since the beginning of the 20th century,1 yet there are limited evidence-based management guidelines. Comprehensive skin toxicity programs are currently being established with an overarching mission to improve patient QOL and optimize utilization of life-prolonging anticancer interventions. Although dermatologic health in cancer patients is gaining increasing attention,1 there are few studies evaluating the impact of supportive oncodermatology clinics on patient QOL. Additionally, there is a paucity of literature assessing patient satisfaction with supportive oncodermatology therapy at major academic centers.
In order to identify the impact that supportive oncodermatology therapy has on dermatology-related QOL, we performed a cross-sectional survey study of patients receiving care at the George Washington University (GWU) Supportive Oncodermatology Clinic. This urban, academic clinic launched in May 2017. This study also evaluated multiple dimensions of patient satisfaction with their received care.
DAEs caused by anticancer agents have been recognized since the beginning of the 20th century,1 yet there are limited evidence-based management guidelines. Comprehensive skin toxicity programs are currently being established with an overarching mission to improve patient QOL and optimize utilization of life-prolonging anticancer interventions. Although dermatologic health in cancer patients is gaining increasing attention,1 there are few studies evaluating the impact of supportive oncodermatology clinics on patient QOL. Additionally, there is a paucity of literature assessing patient satisfaction with supportive oncodermatology therapy at major academic centers.
In order to identify the impact that supportive oncodermatology therapy has on dermatology-related QOL, we performed a cross-sectional survey study of patients receiving care at the George Washington University (GWU) Supportive Oncodermatology Clinic. This urban, academic clinic launched in May 2017. This study also evaluated multiple dimensions of patient satisfaction with their received care.
METHODS
This cross-sectional survey study was approved by the George
