Esophageal cancer is in eighth position among the most common types in the world. Approximately 80% of cases occur in underdeveloped countries. The prognosis is usually poor due to late diagnosis and aggressive characteristics. Studies have shown that questionnaires from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer objectively reflect the quality of these patients' lives, fundamental to ensure replicable results and comparison between different populations. Aim: To describe

more »

... impact of antineoplastic treatment on the quality of life in patients with esophageal cancer through the EORTC basic and specific questionnaires. Method: Systematic review of the PUBMED, CINAHL, SCOPUS, COCHRANE, EMBASE and PSYCINFO databases from 2003 to 2016. A librarian established the search strategy on the bases cited. Two researchers independently selected studies according to the inclusion criteria. Disagreements over studies to be included were resolved by discussion and consensus. Of the 203 records, eight complete texts were selected for analysis. Results: In the EORTC QLQ-OES18 symptom scale, the most frequently mentioned complains were pain, problems with feeding, reflux, dry mouth and problems with taste. On the functional scale, dysphagia was reported in most studies. Conclusion: HRQoL is temporarily affected in patients undergoing chemotherapy, with or without radiotherapy. Most domains improve or return to basal levels despite treatment toxicity. Those who survive a year or more after potentially curative treatment for esophageal cancer can lead a satisfactory life even with some of the functions affected in HRQoL.