Dealing with the lack of evidence to treat depression in older patients with cancer: French Societies of Geriatric Oncology (SOFOG) and PsychoOncology (SFFPO) position paper based on a systematic review
A partir d’une revue systématique de la littérature publiée entre 2013 et 2018 (7 études), cette étude française fait le point sur les traitements de la dépression chez les patients âgés atteints d’un cancer
Introduction : Depression symptoms, frequently diagnosed in older patients with cancer, impacts on oncological treatment feasibility. The Francophone Society of Geriatric Oncology (SOFOG) has initiated a systematic review on depression treatment in older patients with cancer, to advocate guidelines. Data sources : Medline via PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL. Methods : We included randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, reviews and meta-analysis, retrospective and prospective cohort studies, qualitative studies, and guidelines published between January 2013 and December 2018 that involved depression with cancer in which the entire sample or a sub-group aged 65 and above. Efficacy and tolerance of depression treatment were examined, as a primary or secondary outcome, among articles published in French or English. Results : Of 3171 references, only seven studies met our eligibility criteria. This systematic review reveals a lack of evidence-based knowledge in this field, preventing from making any recommendations on drug and non-drug therapies. It has highlighted the need for multidisciplinary collaboration with the French and Francophone Society of Psycho-Oncology. Conclusion : In clinical practice, we advise health professionals to use the screening process not as a result but rather as an opportunity to engage with the patient and also to question the need for antidepressants and non-drug therapies.