Managing a malignant wound in palliative care

Abstract

Malignant wounds cause significant suffering for patients with advanced cancer. These wounds are often non-healing, and the burden of wound-related symptoms is associated with declining physical function, social isolation and a sense of loss of control among patients. Holistic multidisciplinary support and specialised wound care are key to caring for patients with malignant wounds; however, this area remains under-researched and evidence-based management remains challenging. This paper reviews the existing evidence for management of malignant wounds and highlights the role of palliative care in supporting patients and caregivers.