Purpose/objectives

To explore the symptom trajectory during the first 16 months of childhood leukemia treatment and any associations with the oxidative stress pathway measured by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentration of oxidized phosphatidylcholine (PC), the predominant glycerophospholipid in the brain and cell membranes.

Design

Prospective, longitudinal design.

Setting

Two cancer centers in the southwestern United States.

Sample

36 children (aged 3-14 years) newly diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Methods

Symptoms were measured using the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale at six specific time points during treatment. Biochemical changes in oxidative stress were measured by oxidized PC in the CSF.

Main research variables

Childhood cancer symptoms, oxidized PC.

Findings

Significant differences were found in the number of symptoms experienced during the three phases of treatment. Symptom trajectory changes and influence of the oxidative stress pathway on symptom experiences were identified.

Conclusions

Symptoms experienced during treatment for childhood leukemia are associated with increased oxidative stress.

Implications for nursing

Children with leukemia experience symptoms throughout treatment. Physiologic measures indicate the influence of oxidative stress on symptoms.