Acupuncture for the relief of cancer-related breathlessness

Author:

Filshie Jacqueline1,Penn Katherine2,Ashley Sue3,Davis Carol L4

Affiliation:

1. Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton

2. Palliative Care Team, Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton

3. Statistician, Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton

4. Palliative Care Unit, Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton

Abstract

The palliation of cancer-related breathlessness is challenging and complex. An open pilot study was conducted, exploring the safety and efficacy of acupuncture in 20 patients who were breathless at rest and whose breathlessness was directly related to primary or secondary malignancy. Sternal and LI4 acupuncture points were used. Outcome measures included pulse, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and patient-rated visual analogue scales of breathlessness, pain, anxiety and relaxation. At each time point the mean values of the variables were calculated and compared to their pre treatment levels (Student's t-test). Seventy per cent (14/20) of patients reported marked symptomatic benefit from treatment; there were significant changes in VAS scores of breathlessness, relaxation and anxiety at least up to 6 hours post acupuncture which were measured to be maximal at 90 minutes ( p < 0.005, p < 0.001, respectively). There was a significant reduction in respiratory rate, which was sustained for 90 minutes post acupuncture ( p < 0.02). The therapeutic value of acupuncture in the management of breathlessness requires further evaluation.

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Subject

Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine,General Medicine

Reference10 articles.

1. Davis C. The therapeutics of dyspnoea. In: Cancer surveys. Palliative medicine: problem areas in pain and symptom management. New York: Coldstream Harbor Laboratory Press, 1994; 21: 85-98.

2. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale

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