Terminal

Terminal illness is a disease that cannot be cured or adequately treated and that is reasonably expected to result in the death of the patient within a short period of time. This term is more commonly used for progressive diseases such as cancer or advanced heart disease than for trauma. In popular use, it indicates a disease that will progress until death with near absolute certainty, regardless of treatment. A patient who has such an illness may be referred to as a terminal patient, terminally ill or simply terminal.

Definition

A terminal illness is an incurable, irreversible illness that cannot be adequately treated and is reasonably expected to result in the death of the patient. This term is more commonly used for progressive diseases such as cancer or advanced heart disease than for trauma. In popular use, it indicates a disease that will progress until death with near absolute certainty, regardless of treatment. A patient who has such an illness may be referred to as a terminal patient, terminally ill or simply terminal.

Prognosis

The prognosis of a terminal illness does not depend on the specific disease, but on the patient's overall condition, including factors such as age, nutritional status, and co-existing diseases. The impact of the terminal illness on the patient's functional status is often more important than the diagnosis itself.

Treatment

Treatment for terminal illness aims to ease symptoms and improve quality of life, rather than curing the disease. This may include palliative care, which focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting patients and their families.

See also

• Palliative care
• Hospice
• End-of-life care

References

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