Are there psychological specificities in living and taking care of colorectal cancer? An Alsatian experience
Fiche publication
Date publication
septembre 2008
Auteurs
Membres identifiés du Cancéropôle Est :
Pr BACQUE Marie-Frédérique
Tous les auteurs :
Chiappa P, Keller P, Gendre I, Simmler V, Sturm J, Bacque M, Denis B
Lien Pubmed
Résumé
The Alsace was a pilot department for the screening of colorectal cancer because of the incidence of this cancer in this region. This article deals with the experience of a pluri-disciplinary team from Colmar on CCR. Some psychological aspects of colorectal cancer have the usual features associated with cancer: traumatic communication of diagnosis, fear of death, surgery, chemotherapy. But in addition, this cancer endangers the privacy of the excreting process, a highly symbolic function in child development with respect to affirmation of the separate ego. Harm to the colon, rectum or anus restores infantile defence mechanisms because regression is needed in order to allow another to provide treatment, but this regression is quickly suppressed by patients who want to deal with their stoma and the healing process independently. The treatment consequences of such cancers on sexuality are particularly significant in that the partner is often involved, sometimes physically, but more often in supporting the patient in regression by playing a maternal role or by supporting the patient with love and affection.
Référence
Psycho-oncologie. 2008 Sep;2(3):158-63