Oncology Section EDGE Task Force on Cancer: Measures of Cancer-Related Fatigue-A Systematic Review

Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most common side effects of cancer and cancer treatment. Being able to accurately screen for and assess CRF will improve access to and prescriptions for interventions. Valid and reliable measures to screen for and assess CRF need to be identified. Purpose: To identify and recommend reliable, valid, and clinically useful tools to screen for and assess CRF among those treated for cancer. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted to assess the published psychometric properties and clinical feasibility of each method identified. Task force members independently reviewed each measure using the Cancer EDGE Rating Form. Results: Review of 136 studies resulted in recommendations for 14 questionnaires. Five unidimensional and 9 multidimensional questionnaires are recommended by the Oncology EDGE Task Force. Conclusion: The 10-point Numeric Rating Scale for Fatigue is best as a screening tool, whereas the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory is a highly recommended multidimensional tool. Ease of screening can promote referral for interventions, whereas thorough assessment drives appropriate interventions.