Symptom Networks and Core Symptoms in Patients with Solid Tumors Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review.
Semin Oncol NursJul 30, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchOncology (Medical)
Ruo-Lin Li, Xin-Yan Zhang, Yi-Wen Zhou et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review analyzed symptom networks in 13,452 adults with solid tumors undergoing chemotherapy. It identified fatigue as the most common core symptom, appearing in 50% of studies, and highlighted the variability of core symptoms across cancer types and treatment phases. The review synthesized data from 27 studies employing various designs.
Key findings
- Fatigue was identified as a core symptom in 50% of studies.
- Sadness, lack of appetite, and nausea were core symptoms in 10% of studies.
- Bridge symptoms included disturbed sleep, lack of appetite, and dry mouth in 28.6% of studies.
- Temporal associations indicated that sadness and dyspnea predicted changes in appetite and distress.
Why it matters
Understanding symptom networks and core symptoms can enhance symptom management strategies in oncology. Recognizing the relationships among symptoms allows for more tailored interventions, potentially improving patient outcomes during chemotherapy.