Is There a Biological Basis for the Clustering of Symptoms?

Objectives

To examine symptom clusters in oncology patients; to determine if these symptom clusters might share a common biologic mechanism; and to describe potential biologic mechanisms that warrant investigation.

Data Sources

Synthesis of the theoretical and research papers on symptom clusters.

Conclusion

Definitive conclusions about whether there is a biologic basis for the clustering of symptoms cannot be determined at this time. The animal model of sickness behavior holds promise as a potential biologic mechanism for clustering symptoms.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Until more definitive studies of symptom clusters are performed, clinicians need to monitor patients for the co-occurrence of multiple symptoms and develop appropriate management plans.

Key Words: Symptom clusters, symptom assessment, cluster analysis, mechanisms