Long-term health-related quality of life in meningioma survivors: a mixed-methods systematic review

Background

Meningiomas account for ~25% of all primary brain tumours. These tumours have a relatively favourable prognosis with ~92% of meningioma patients surviving > 5 years after diagnosis. Yet, patients can report high disease burden and survivorship issues even years after treatment, affecting health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We aimed to systematically review the literature and synthesise evidence on HRQOL in meningioma patients across long-term survival, defined as >2 years post diagnosis.

Methods

Systematic literature searches were carried out using Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science Core Collection. Any published, peer reviewed article with primary quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods data covering the physical, mental, and/or social aspects of HRQOL of meningioma survivors were included. Narrative synthesis method was used to interpret findings.

Results

Searches returned 2253 unique publications, of which 21 were included. Of these, N=15 involved quantitative methodology, N=4 mixed methods and N=2 were qualitative reports. Patient sample survival ranged from 2.75–13 years. HRQOL impairment was seen across all domains. Physical issues included persevering symptoms (e.g. headaches, fatigue, vision problems); mental issues comprised emotional burden (e.g., high prevalence of depressive symptoms and anxiety) and cognitive complaints; social issues included role limitations, social isolation, and affected work productivity. Due to study heterogeneity, the impact of treatment on long-term HRQOL remains unclear.

Conclusions

Findings from this review highlight the areas of HRQOL that can be impacted in long-term survivorship for patients with meningioma. These findings could help raise awareness among clinicians and patients, facilitating support provision.