A RECENT study has highlighted a significant increase in the use of inpatient palliative care (IPC) among metastatic testicular cancer patients undergoing critical care therapy (CCT) between 2008 and 2019. Data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database showed that 17% of these patients received IPC. This represents a rise from 5% in 2008 to 19% in 2019, with the highest rate of 30% occurring in 2018.
The study identified several factors that were more common among patients receiving IPC. These included older age, the presence of brain metastases, and “do not resuscitate” (DNR) status. Additionally, patients who received IPC had a significantly higher rate of inpatient mortality (74% compared to 29%; p<0.001). Multivariable analyses revealed that DNR status and African American race/ethnicity were independent predictors of higher IPC use.
Although the rates of IPC use in metastatic testicular cancer patients have risen over the past decade, they remain lower than those seen in patients with metastatic lung cancer, indicating a potential gap in care awareness. The study emphasizes the need for increased education and awareness among healthcare providers to better integrate IPC into the treatment plans of metastatic testicular cancer patients. This could improve patient quality of life and outcomes, especially for those in advanced stages of the disease.
Helena Bradbury, EMJ
Reference
Garcia CC et al. Use of inpatient palliative care in metastatic testicular cancer patients undergoing critical care therapy: insights from the national inpatient sample. Scientific Reports. 2025;15(1):967.
