Intermittent cancer pain: clinical importance and an updated cancer pain classification.

Aim: We report the characteristics of intermittent cancer pain. In addition, we propose a new clinically based classification.

Methods: Consecutive patients with cancer referred to our palliative medicine service were consented and underwent a comprehensive pain evaluation including available laboratory and radiological studies, at the time of initial contact.

The intravenous to oral relative milligram potency ratio of morphine during chronic dosing in cancer pain.

Morphine (M) is the opioid analgesic of choice for severe cancer pain. The IV to PO M equipotent switch ratio (CR) is controversial. We designed this prospective observational cohort to confirm the efficacy and safety of M IV to PO CR of 1:3.

The therapeutic application of melatonin in supportive care and palliative medicine.

Melatonin is a hormone produced mainly in the pineal gland. Plasma levels exhibit a circadian variation with the highest concentration occurring at night. The human biologic effects of melatonin depend upon the time of day it is made available.

Assessment of nutritional status and fluid deficits in advanced cancer.

Malnutrition and cachexia are frequent manifestations of cancer and are major contributors to morbidity and mortality. The assessment of nutrition status in cancer patients can be easily accomplished. The first step is to record a complete medical history and to perform a thorough clinical examination to uncover signs of nutritional deficiency.

Superior vena cava syndrome secondary to saphenous venous graft aneurysm with right atrial fistula.

Mega-aneurysms of saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) to coronary arteries are rare complications of bypass surgery. We report the development of superior vena cava syndrome secondary to an SVG mega-aneurysm with concomitant fistulous communication to the right atrium. Successful treatment was achieved by coil embolization and chronic anticoagulation.

A phase II study of hydrocodone for cough in advanced cancer.

Purpose: Cough is a common symptom in advanced cancer. The use of hydrocodone as an antitussive has not been studied previously in this setting. This study evaluates hydrocodone for cough in advanced cancer

Methods: The results presented are from a phase II study with dose titration.