Diagnostic flow for all patients referred with non-specific symptoms of cancer to a diagnostic centre in Denmark: A descriptive study

Abstract

Background

Since 2012, Cancer Patient Pathways for Non-specific Symptoms and Signs of Cancer (NSSC-CPP) have been implemented in Scandinavia and UK.

Objectives

This study aimed to describe the diagnostic flow for all patients referred from 1 January to 30 June 2020 to the NSSC-CPP in the Diagnostic Centre in Farsø (DC-F), Denmark.

Methods

During the study period, we prospectively recorded information on the diagnostic flow, including: pathway trajectory, symptoms and findings leading to referral, diagnostic procedures and diagnoses at the end of DC Farsø work-up and within 6-months for all patients referred to the NSSC-CPP in DC Farsø using electronic patient files and the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR).

Results

Of the 314 referrals to DC Farsø, 227 had diagnostic work-up in DC Farsø, the remaining were redirected to other CPPs (n = 11), outpatient clinics (n = 45) or redirected to general practice (n = 25). Of total referrals, 25 (8%) received a malignant diagnosis, 20 (6%) a non-malignant but clinically relevant diagnosis with initiation of treatment, 16 (5%) a non-malignant diagnosis but no treatment needed and in 253 (81%) referrals no severe new condition was diagnosed. Two (1%) additional malignancies were diagnosed within a 6-month follow-up period.

Conclusion

By tracking all patients referred to the NSSC-CPP in DC Farsø, including those redirected, this is the first study to describe the diagnostic flow for all patients referred to a diagnostic centre in Denmark. This knowledge is important for further organisation and planning of the NSSC-CPP.

KEY MESSAGES

• Eight percent of NSSC-CPP referrals yielded cancer diagnoses, with two additional cancers diagnosed in a 6-month follow-up.

• Over one-fourth of referrals to NSSC-CPP were redirected to other departments or general practitioners.

• This study outlines the diagnostic flow for all NSSC-CPP-referred patients, offering unique insights crucial for comparing European diagnostic practices.

Keywords:

• Non-specific symptoms
• diagnostic centre
• cancer patient pathway
• diagnoses

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.