Prediction of prognosis is a very difficult task even when a patient is riddled with cancer and is not being actively treated. (1)(2). So it is not surprising that prognostication for non-malignant conditions is even more difficult as highlighted by Liam Farrell.(3). Better to be honest with patients and families about the huge uncertainties inherent in prognostication.
References:
1. Gripp S, Moeller S, Bölke E, Schmitt G, Matuschek C, Asgari S, et al. Survival prediction in terminally ill cancer patients by clinical estimates, laboratory tests, and self-rated anxiety and depression. J. Clin. Oncol. 2007 Aug 1;25(22):3313–20.
2. Parkes CM. Accuracy of predictions of survival in later stages of cancer. Br Med J. 1972 Apr 1;2(5804):29–31.
3. Farrell L. Breaking good news. BMJ. 2012;345:e7355.
Rapid Response:
Re: Breaking good news
Prediction of prognosis is a very difficult task even when a patient is riddled with cancer and is not being actively treated. (1)(2). So it is not surprising that prognostication for non-malignant conditions is even more difficult as highlighted by Liam Farrell.(3). Better to be honest with patients and families about the huge uncertainties inherent in prognostication.
References:
1. Gripp S, Moeller S, Bölke E, Schmitt G, Matuschek C, Asgari S, et al. Survival prediction in terminally ill cancer patients by clinical estimates, laboratory tests, and self-rated anxiety and depression. J. Clin. Oncol. 2007 Aug 1;25(22):3313–20.
2. Parkes CM. Accuracy of predictions of survival in later stages of cancer. Br Med J. 1972 Apr 1;2(5804):29–31.
3. Farrell L. Breaking good news. BMJ. 2012;345:e7355.
Competing interests: No competing interests