Understanding fungating tumors: a retrospective study on patient characteristics, wound complications, and management insights.

PURPOSE

Chronic fungating tumors inflict profound psychological and physical harm to patients, drastically diminishing their quality of life. However, robust quantitative data characterizing their common issues and survival are scarce. The aim of this study is to better characterize fungating wounds and to suggest management techniques.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed charts of patients who presented with a fungating tumor at Brigham and Women's Wound Care Center between 2019 and 2024. Patient characteristics and outcomes along with wound presentation and complications were collected.

RESULTS

Sixty-two patients fit inclusion criteria. Eighty-one percent were women. Patients presented at an average age of 58. Breast cancer (68%) and melanoma (10%) were the most common etiologies. At initial presentation, patients mostly suffered from wound exudate (90%), necrosis (69%), and pain (52%). After initial presentation, 27% were admitted with sepsis, which was statistically associated with mortality, and 24% experienced bleeding episodes. At the time of this study, 61% of patients are still alive. Those who died survived an average of 309 days after presentation. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates 1-, 2-, and 5-year survival at 71%, 59%, and 51%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patients may live longer than previously estimated. Emphasizing a palliative, patient-centered approach may significantly enhance quality of life. Further research is essential to advancing evidence-based strategies and optimizing outcomes.