Predictors of Ness et al for Exercise Intolerance in an Adult Survivor of a Childhood Cancer

Description

An adult survivor of a childhood cancer may show reduced exercise capacity even if asymptomatic. Ness et al identified findings associated with exercise intolerance. The authors are from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, University of Tennessee, University of Minnesota and the University of Texas Houston.

Patient selection: adult survivor of a childhood cancer

Exercise intolerance was defined as peak oxygen uptake in mL per min per kg < 85% of predicted.

Low cardiorespiratory fitness is a maximal aerobic capacity < 7.9 METS.

Predictors of exercise intolerance:

(1) abnormal global longitudinal peak systolic strain on speckle tracking of apical views at echocardiography (> 1.5 SD above mean for age, sex and vendor means)

(2) FEV1 < 80% of predicted

(3) isokinetic quadriceps strength while sitting that is 1 SD below mean for age and sex

(4) chronotropic incompetence (<80% of predicted for age and sex predicted heart rate reserve; an indicator of blunted autonomic response)

Significance:

(1) A patient with a cardiac cause of exercise intolerance may be at increased risk for heart failure.

(2) The pattern of underlying deficiencies is important for planning an effective exercise program.

Other factors to consider (not discussed):

(1) deconditioning

(2) comorbidities and frailty

To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.