Is the EORTC QLQ‐C30 emotional functioning scale appropriate as an initial screening measure to identify brain tumour patients who may possibly have a mood disorder?

Abstract

Background Screening glioma patients regularly for possible mood disorders may facilitate early identification and referral of patients at risk. This study evaluated if the EORTC QLQ‐C30 Emotional Functioning (EF) scale could be used as an initial screening measure to identify patients possibly having a mood disorder. Methods EORTC QLQ‐C30 EF and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores were collected as part of a study assessing the impact of timing of patient‐reported outcome assessments on actual health‐related quality of life outcomes (N = 99). Spearman correlations and Mann‐Whitney U tests were used to determine the association between the EF and HADS (sub)scales. Receiver Operating Characteristic analyses were performed to determine optimal cut‐off EF scores to identify patients possibly having a mood disorder (i.e. HADS subscale score ≥8 points). Results EF and HADS (sub)scales correlated moderately (HADS‐A: r = −0.65; HADS‐D: r = −0.52). Significant EF score differences were found between patients with HADS ≥8 versus <8 points (HADS‐A: mean difference (MD) = 32 and HADS‐D: MD = 23). The EF scale had excellent (HADS‐A; AUC = 0.88) and borderline excellent (HADS‐D; AUC = 0.78) distinguishing capabilities. A statistically optimal (EF score <80) and a most inclusive (sensitivity of 100%, corresponding to an EF score <97) EF cut‐off score correctly identified 88.0% and 96.0% of patients with a possible mood disorder, respectively. Conclusion EORTC QLQ‐C30 EF scale seems to be an appropriate screening measure to identify glioma patients possibly having a mood disorder in need of further assessment.

Development and application of emotion recognition technology — a systematic literature review

“…In some studies, clinical disease features and emotional characteristics were combined as unique biomarkers that are involved in the clinical diagnostic process. They have also been used to assess patients’ performance during treatment and to aid in implementing psychological intervention therapies [ 25 , 26 ].…”

“…A study by Quirien (2022) suggested that the regular use of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) emotional function (EF) scale for screening anxiety and depression symptoms in glioma patients contributes to the early identification of emotional disorders. This practice serves as a foundation for referrals and treatment decisions [ 26 ]. Overall, these studies indicate that psychological care and interventions can enhance patients’ mental well-being within a clinical practice setting.…”