Investigation of pain score, laboratory parameters and depression status of oncologic patients in pain palliation treatment

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the pain levels, depression status, and various laboratory parameters in oncological patients followed in a palliative care unit, and to determine the relationships among these variables. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional and descriptive prospective study was conducted between May 2024 and March 2025 at the Palliative Care Units of Ordu University Training and Research Hospital. A total of 63 oncological patients were included. Pain levels at admission and discharge were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and depression levels were evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Laboratory parameters including hemogram, CRP, albumin, ferritin, and vitamin B12 levels were recorded. Sociodemographic and oncological data were also analyzed. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS V23 and R version 4.1.1, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 69.3 years, and 57.1% were male. The most common primary diagnosis was gastrointestinal malignancies (31.7%), and 63.5% of the patients had metastasis. Pain and depression scores were significantly reduced at discharge compared to admission (p<0.001). Ferritin, CRP, and vitamin B12 levels were found to be elevated at admission, while hemoglobin and albumin levels were low. At discharge, hemoglobin and albumin levels showed a significant decrease, while ferritin levels increased. Statistically significant associations were also found between certain laboratory parameters and demographic or oncological variables. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that, in oncological patients receiving palliative care, not only symptom management but also psychological and biochemical evaluations play a crucial role in treatment planning. Effective management of pain and depression, monitoring of laboratory parameters, and the creation of individualized care plans are critical for improving the quality of life in this patient group. Based on the results, it is recommended that a multidisciplinary approach and comprehensive assessment models be maintained within palliative care services. Key Words: Family Medicine, Oncology, Palliative Care, Pain, Depression, Laboratory Parameters, Visual Analog Scale, Beck Depression Inventory