Functional Impairments and Rehabilitation Outcomes of Patients With Immunotherapy-Induced Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy, Myasthenia Gravis, and Myositis. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ng, Amy H.; Molinares, Diana M.; Guo, Ying; Fu, Jack; Bruera, Eduardo
• Is Part Of: American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation. Volume 100:Number 10(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Immunotherapy -- Functional Outcomes -- Musculoskeletal Weakness; Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Medicine, Physical -- Periodicals; 617.062
• DOI: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001764
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0894-9115

Abstract

Abstract : Abstract: Immunotherapy has led to a higher survival rate among different oncological disease groups but also associated with adverse-related events in multiple organ systems. Immunotherapy-related musculoskeletal weakness often results in a loss of cancer survivors' physical function, ultimately impacting their independence and quality of life. This is a retrospective study of 24 cancer patients who were treated with immunotherapy either alone or in conjunction with other oncological treatments. Twelve subjects (50%) were found to have acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculopathy/Guillain-Barré syndrome, six (25%) myositis, two (8%) myasthenia gravis, two (8%) diagnosis of myositis/myasthenia gravis, and one (4%) Guillain-Barré syndrome/myasthenia gravis combination. Physical therapy was provided in 91.7% of the cases, and physiatrist was involved in 54% of the cases. Almost half (45%) were discharged home, six (25%) to acute inpatient rehabilitation, two (8%) to subacute rehabilitation, three (12.5%) to hospice, and two (8%) died. The average length of hospital stay was 30 days, and eight patients (33%) readmitted within 3 mos. Our findings highlight the severity of functional impairments and the need for early rehabilitation interventions. Abstract : Supplemental digital content is available in the text.