Fatigue patterns observed in patients receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy

The purpose of this study was to describe the patterns of cancer-related fa tigue (CRF) and vigor in patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation thera py. Five studies that measured fatigue and vigor with the Profile of Mood S tates were used to describe the pattern of CRF cmd vigor during and after b oth types of treatment. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to determine diffe rences over time in each study. Results demonstrate different patterns of C RF for patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Chemotherapy- related CRF peaks in the days after chemotherapy, whereas radiation therapy -related CRF gradually accumulates over the course of treatment. The CRF as sociated with both forms of treatment gradually declines over time. The pre valence, intensity, and persistence of CRF during treatment and for months after treatment is complete make this symptom one that cannot be ignored.