Psychosocial Outcomes in Patients With Endocrine Tumor Syndromes: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Psychology
• Genetics

Background:

• Endocrine tumor syndromes (ETSs) present unique challenges due to disease manifestations, familial burden, and variable penetrance.
• A comprehensive understanding of psychosocial outcomes in ETS patients is crucial for improving care.
• Existing data on psychosocial impacts require synthesis to identify research and clinical gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize existing data on psychosocial outcomes in patients with ETSs.
• To explore specific factors influencing psychosocial well-being in different ETSs.
• To identify gaps and opportunities for future research and clinical interventions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across PubMed, PsychInfo, and Embase for studies on multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN), von Hippel-Lindau (VHL), and SDHx gene pathogenic variants (PVs).
• Inclusion of studies focusing on psychosocial outcomes in adult and pediatric populations.
• Quality assessment of included studies using CASP and STROBE appraisal tools.

Main Results:

• 36 studies were identified, with varying evidence quality; five included pediatric patients.
• ETSs considerably impact quality of life, anxiety, and depression; maladaptive coping and socioeconomic factors worsen outcomes.
• Surveillance protocols had mixed effects; specific symptoms and family history influenced outcomes differently across MEN1, MEN2A, MEN2B, VHL, and SDHx-PVs.

Conclusions:

• Psychosocial outcomes and their contributing factors differ significantly among various ETSs.
• Further research is essential to address the specific psychosocial needs of children diagnosed with ETSs.
• Tailored clinical approaches are needed to manage the diverse psychosocial challenges faced by ETS patients.