ArticleBMJ open2025
Chemotherapy-induced hand-foot syndrome among Chinese inpatients: a qualitative descriptive study in Shanghai.
Article in BMJ open, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
objectiveTo explore the symptom experiences and self-management strategies of patients with chemotherapy-induced hand-foot syndrome (HFS), and to identify approaches for improving symptom control and quality of life.
designA qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis.
settingWe conducted this study in the oncology inpatient ward of a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China.
participantsWe used a purposive sampling approach to recruit 25 inpatients with chemotherapy-induced HFS from July 2022 to March 2024. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We employed an adapted version of Colaizzi's qualitative analysis approach to examine the data.
results25 patients (mean age 58 years; 56% male) with grade I-III chemotherapy-induced HFS were interviewed. Four inter-related themes emerged.(1) Symptom experience: pain, numbness and burning sensations disturbed sleep; visible peeling and hyper-pigmentation triggered embarrassment and self-consciousness.(2) Emotional responses: most participants accepted symptoms as 'part of treatment', yet persistent anxiety about progression and guilt over becoming a family burden were common.(3) Social impact: patients avoided outdoor activities, stopped caring for grandchildren and reported lost income because 'hands can't touch cold or rough items'.(4) Future expectations: participants wanted pictorial self-care guides, a nurse hotline after discharge and earlier introduction of pain-relief strategies. All expressed frustration at 'no-one to ask' once home.
conclusionsChemotherapy-induced HFS imposes a considerable multidimensional burden. Tailored, patient-centred interventions that integrate education, psychological support and family involvement are essential to improve symptom management and overall well-being. Future work should develop and test sustainable, long-term support strategies in broader populations. SCIENTIFIC AND CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides the first qualitative evidence base for understanding and managing chemotherapy-induced HFS in Chinese patients, informing nurse-led interventions, patient-reported outcome development and national supportive-care policy.
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