The Role of Biomarkers in Research on Caregivers for Cancer Patients: A Scoping Review.
Biol Res Nurs
; 20(3): 300-311, 2018 05.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-29130313
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Biomarkers can be used as prognostic, predictive, or monitoring indicators of an associated outcome. The purpose of this review was to provide a comprehensive summary of the research examining the use of biomarkers as surrogate end points for clinical outcomes in family caregivers for cancer patients, identify gaps, and make recommendations for future research.METHODS:
A scoping review, a process of mapping the existing literature, was conducted. Studies comparing biomarkers across caregivers and controls and/or examining relationships between biomarkers and psychological health were reviewed.RESULTS:
The studies ( N = 18) of caregivers for cancer patients who were identified used biomarkers to predict outcomes ( n = 13) and to monitor the efficacy of interventions ( n = 6). Biomarkers were divided into two categories based on physiological systems involved (1) neuroendocrine function (sympathetic-adrenal-medullary axis activity, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity) and (2) immune function. Predictive biomarkers were sensitive to differences between caregivers and controls. The biomarkers were used to evaluate outcomes frequently associated with stress, depression, and anxiety. Cortisol was the biomarker most commonly measured to monitor the efficacy of interventions.DISCUSSION:
Biomarkers are most commonly incorporated into caregiver studies to predict group membership and psychological health. Neuroendocrine biomarkers, specifically cortisol, are most frequently assessed. Future research should include biomarkers of other physiologic functions (e.g., cardiovascular function, cognitive dysfunction, and cell aging) and those that serve as multisystem indicators. Expanding the scientific study of biomarkers will contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms through which stress may influence caregiver health.Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Banco de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Estrés Psicológico
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Cuidadores
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Depresión
Tipo de estudio:
Guideline
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Prognostic_studies
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Qualitative_research
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Systematic_reviews
Límite:
Female
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Humans
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Male
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Biol Res Nurs
Asunto de la revista:
ENFERMAGEM
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MEDICINA
Año:
2018
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Estados Unidos