HRQL instruments

‘Generic domains of HRQL will be assessed with the EORTC core Quality of Life Questionnaire, the EORTC QLQ-C30 (Reference). This instrument has been well validated in many international clinical trials in oncology including oesophageal adenocarcinoma and squamous cell cancer. Disease-specific and Chemoradiotherapy (CRT)-associated symptoms and side effects will be assessed with the oesophageal cancer-specific module, the EORTC QLQ-OES18 (Reference). This has been validated and tested in patients receiving definitive CRT. The module includes scales assessing dysphagia, eating restrictions, reflux, dry mouth and problems with saliva and deglutition. The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) will also be administered (Reference). This is a well-validated, easy-to-use index which assesses the impact of dermatological conditions on patients’ HRQL (Reference). It has been included to accurately assess the impact of the acneiform eruption commonly seen with cetuximab.’⁵⁴