The trajectory of biomarkers in symptom management for older adults with cancer.

Objectives: To provide an overview of the trajectory of select biomarkers and their potential usefulness in symptom management in the older individual with cancer.
Data Sources: Empirical data and literature review.
Conclusion: Biomarkers offer significant opportunities to understand the biological impact of cancer and its treatment on older adults whose response is likely different from their younger counterparts. Large well-designed multi-site clinical trials with adequate numbers and power are necessary to create evidenced-based practice changes.
Implications for Nursing Practice: Nurses need to understand the science and implications of biomarkers to develop interventions in response to the mechanisms of symptoms experienced by older adults with cancer.