[Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) for cancer patients]

We have treated thirty-five cancer patients with HPN since 1987. This paper describes its efficacy and problems. Their average age was 62 years old. The duration of HPN varied from 31 to 573 days (mean: 167 days). The catheter was removed in three cases because of catheter fever or obstruction. Metabolic complications arose in three cases, but they were easily treated. Twenty-three cases underwent pain control. Twelve cases were given cancer chemotherapy. We concluded that HPN for recurrent cancer patients is a relatively safe and effective means to improve the quality of life. We consider the following important in order to carry out HPN more smoothly. 1) Improvement of drug delivery system. 2) Establishment of home care system with other hospitals, clinics, and home care companies. 3) The easing of health-insurance restrictions on making out prescriptions to outpatients.