We examined the symptoms and referral rates to specialized palliative care and psychosocial oncology services of patients with acute leukemia. The Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS) was completed by 249 adult patients with acute leukemia. Patients reported a median of 9 physical and 2 psychological symptoms, and those with intense lack of energy, difficulty sleeping and pain were more likely to report intense worrying/sadness (P < 0.001). No patients with moderate-severe pain were referred for specialized symptom control and only 13% of those with severe worrying/sadness were referred to psychiatry/psychology within one month of the *

The present study demonstrates that clinically significant symptoms of traumatic stress are common in acute leukemia and are linked to the degree of physical suffering, to satisfaction with relationships with health-care providers, and with individual psychological characteristics. Longitudinal study is needed to determine the natural history, but these findings suggest that intervention may be indicated to alleviate or prevent traumatic stress in this population.

Symptoms of traumatic stress are common in acute leukemia. The goal of the present qualitative study was to understand this traumatic stress, as perceived by patients. Participants were 43 patients with acute leukemia in Toronto, Canada. Participants were asked in serial interviews about their experience of diagnosis and treatment. A total of 65 interviews were analyzed utilizing the grounded theory method. Our findings provide insight into the traumatic experience of the diagnosis and treatment, as well as the initial psychological response to this trauma. Patients coped by surrendering control to the medical team, in whom they felt great trust. Patients also expressed a strong preference for limited information, with a preference to avoid discussions about overall prognosis. These results may inform interventions to relieve traumatic stress in this high risk population.

AML patients are now leaving acute care settings sicker and earlier. Considering their perceptions can inform interventions to facilitate adjustment during the transition to outpatient care.