The Swiss Group for Clinical Cancer Research is currently conducting a clinical trial to determine whether mesothelioma symptoms can be better controlled with or without the use of a newly developed electronic device. The Electronic Tool for Monitoring Symptoms and Syndromes Associated With Advanced Cancer (nicknamed E-MOSAIC) is a hand held tool used to record and monitor symptoms and assess the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer. Researchers hope the device will improve communication between patients and their doctors and improve their ability to plan treatments.

The E-MOSAIC trial is being conducted as a palliative treatment. Unlike curative mesothelioma treatments, palliative treatments are not carried out in an attempt to remove all cancer cells and cure the disease. Instead, palliative treatments are designed to relieve pain and discomfort and to improve the patient’s quality of life. Mesothelioma patients who participate in the trial will include persons with advanced incurable cancer looking to ease their pain and suffering rather than improve their prognosis.

In order to participate in the E-MOSAIC clinical trial, patients must be at least 18 years old and suffering from an advanced cancer that is causing pain, anorexia, weight loss, fatigue, depression, and/or anxiety. In addition, eligible patients must currently be receiving palliative anticancer treatment continuously every week, or every other week as an outpatient. Final eligibility will be determined by the health professionals conducting the E-MOSAIC trial.

Patients that are chosen to participate will be randomly assigned to one of two equal groups. In group one, patients will use a handheld electronic tool once a week to record information about their symptoms and diet. Nurses will record the patient’s weight and Karnofsky performance status once a week. Information from the handheld electronic tool will be printed and stored.

In group two, patients will use a handheld electronic device once a week to rate specific symptoms including pain, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, anxiety, depression, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, overall well-being, and diet. Nurses will record the patient’s weight, Karnofsky performance status, body mass index, and use of medications for pain, anorexia, fatigue, or weight loss once a week. Information from the handheld electronic tool will be printed and stored.

In both groups, patients will be evaluated at the beginning of the study and at three and six weeks. The E-MOSAIC trial has great potential for improving the quality of life in current and future mesothelioma patients, as well as patients suffering from all advanced forms of cancer. Individuals interested in participating in this trial, which is estimated to reach completion in July 2010, should contact Dr. Florian Strasser, MD at the Kantonsspital in St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Content provided by Mesothelioma Cancer Center