Abstract CN70
Background
Seizures are reported as the initial presentation in up to 45% of patients with Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Up to 80% of patients however can develop seizures during the whole course of their disease. Patient insight into seizures is therefore an important aspect of their care. We assessed patients' and carers' knowledge of the common forms of seizure activity to identify potential gaps in their understanding of GBM-related seizures and their associated urgent management.
Methods
Patients with GBM and their carers attending the oral chemotherapy clinic over a 2 week period were offered to participate in a questionnaire-based assessment. The questionnaire was designed to look at the symptoms & signs of seizures, whether they were currently on anti-seizure medication, the role of buccal midazolam, and whether they were content with the information they had received.
Results
Of the 42 candidates approached, 38 participated with the questionnaire. 55% were patients, the reminder were carers (n=17). From a list of 12 signs of seizures 57% of patients and 35% of carers were able to identify 5 or more signs. Anti-seizure medications were being taken by 76% of patients. 42% had a prior seizure, with 33% having a history of at least 2 seizures. Of the patients who had experienced a seizure only 33% had heard of buccal midazolam, and only 18% of their carers. Of those confident about seizure recognition, only 42% of patients were content with the information they had received about seizures.
Conclusions
Though seizures are a real reality for many of our patients with GBM, the level of knowledge within patients and their carers about seizures and their managment was moderate. The low awareness within the cohort assessed regarding the benefits of buccal midazolam and of how to administer it was concerning. This pilot assessment demonstrates a need to reconsider the approach to the holistic care of our patients with GBM, beyond the usual limited focus on systemic chemotherapy.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
Beaumont Hospital.
Funding
Has not received any funding.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.