Article
Decision-Making in Patients With Cancer and Kidney Disease

https://doi.org/10.1053/j.ackd.2013.07.005Get rights and content

Thoughtful decision-making in a patient with cancer and kidney disease requires a comprehensive discussion of prognosis and therapy options for both conditions framed by the individual's preferences and goals of care. An estimate of overall prognosis is generated that includes the patient's clinical presentation and parameters associated with adverse outcomes, such as age, performance status, frailty, malnutrition, and comorbidities. Empathic communication of this information using a shared decision-making approach can lead to an informed decision that respects patient autonomy and is consistent with the patient's “big-picture” goals and personal values.

Key Words

Shared decision-making
Dialysis
Prognosis
Palliative care
Onconephrology

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The authors declare no financial disclosures or conflicts of interest.

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