Is there a biological basis for the clustering of symptoms?
OBJECTIVE
To examine symptom clusters in oncology patients; to determine if these symptom clusters might share a common biologic mechanism; and to describe potential biologic mechanisms that warrant investigation.


METHODS
Synthesis of the theoretical and research papers on symptom clusters.


CONCLUSIONS
Definitive conclusions about whether there is a biologic basis for the clustering of symptoms cannot be determined at this time. The animal model of sickness behavior holds promise as a potential biologic mechanism for clustering symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
Until more definitive studies of symptom clusters are performed, clinicians need to monitor patients for the co-occurrence of multiple symptoms and develop appropriate management plans.
Miaskowski
Christine
C
Department of Physiological Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143-0610, USA. chris.miaskowski@nursing.ucsf.edu
Aouizerat
Bradley E
BE
D016000:Cluster Analysis; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000503:physiopathology*