Orphan symptoms in palliative care

Symptom management is the cornerstone of good palliative care. Symptoms of advanced disease, such as pain, nausea and dyspnoea, are readily assessed and frequently the focus of both consultations and research studies. However, there are many other prevalent symptoms that remain unaddressed in clinical practice if not highlighted by the patient or specifically sought by the healthcare professional. These symptoms may have a significant impact on remaining quality of life. This paper will focus on the assessment and management of some of these symptoms, including asthenia, constipation, dry mouth, pressure ulcers, hyperhidrosis, lymphoedema and pruritus.