Quality-of-Life Changes in Patients with Unresectable Locally Advanced or Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer Receiving Rhus verniciflua Stokes Combined with Chemotherapy: A Prospective Observational Pilot Study

Objectives: Pancreatic cancer is a highly lethal malignancy, with limited treatment options and a high impact on quality of life (QoL). Disease progression and chemotherapy-related toxicity can deteriorate QoL in patients with advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer (amPC). Rhus verniciflua stokes (RVS) has been reported as safe in patients with amPC, with potential survival benefits. This study analyzed QoL changes in patients with unresectable amPC receiving RVS combined with first-line chemotherapy.Methods: Patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy combined with RVS were assessed using the EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaire. The primary endpoint was change in the EORTC-QLQ-C30 summary score, while secondary endpoints included changes in individual domain scores.Results: Over six months, no significant deterioration in the summary score was observed (-1.00±0.89 points/month; 95% CI: -0.09 to 0.08; p=0.26). Among domains, global health, physical function, role function, and cognitive function scores showed potential declines, while emotional function significantly improved. Social function and other symptom scores remained stable.Conclusion: RVS combined with first-line chemotherapy may help preserve QoL in patients with unresectable amPC.