[Palliative medicine].

Palliative medicine is the care and the study of that care for patients, with an active, progressive, and advanced disease, where life expectancy is relatively short. The goal is achievement of the best possible quality of life for patients and their families. Pain therapy, control of other physical symptoms and of psychological, social and spiritual problems are cornerstones of palliative medicine. Skilled empathetic communication and ethical issues are essential to many of the aspects of palliative care. Education and training of professional health workers involved in the care of dying patients is important.