Comparative mixed-methods cohort study explores psychological outcomes in oral squamous cell carcinoma with different treatment pathways, suggesting tailored interventions.
Key Points
Investigate the psychological effects of neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy versus surgery on body image and distress in oral squamous cell carcinoma patients.
Prospective comparative mixed-methods cohort study with 154 OSCC patients (77 NICT, 77 US)
Used Body Image Scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for assessment
Analyzed data with linear mixed-effects models and conducted qualitative phenomenological interviews (n=15).
Significant time-by-group interactions for body image disturbance (BIS) and psychological distress (HADS) (p<0.001)
NICT group showed higher pre-surgical distress (HADS-Total 15.8 vs. 12.9, p=0.004) but better recovery at three months (BIS 11.5 vs. 14.2, p=0.002; HADS-Total 12.2 vs. 15.5, p<0.001)
Qualitative findings indicated distinct psychological experiences between treatment pathways.