Symptom management and quality of life in glioma patients.

Symptoms of fatigue, cognitive deficits, depression and changes in personality and behavior are frequently reported in patients with glioma. These symptoms have a large impact on the everyday life of patients and their partners and can contribute to a decrease in quality of life. While guidelines are available for managing most of these symptoms, these guidelines are often not suitable for the brain tumor patient population, as this population has very specific problems and needs. Obtaining more evidence on the effectiveness of existing and new interventions targeting fatigue, cognitive deficits, depression, and changes in personality and behavior in this population is advised. Screening combined with adequate referral to supportive care professionals has the potential to decrease the disease burden of glioma patients and their partners.