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Neurobehavioral effects of interferon therapy
Alan D Valentine1, Christina A Meyers
1U.T. M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Neuro-Oncology, Unit 431, P.O. Box 301402, Houston, TX 77230, USA.
Current Psychiatry Reports
|October 12, 2005
Summary
Interferon (IFN) therapy can cause significant neuropsychiatric side effects, including depression and cognitive dysfunction, often leading to treatment discontinuation. Early screening and targeted treatments are crucial for managing these adverse events.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Interferon (IFN) therapy is linked to neuropsychiatric side effects, commonly causing cognitive dysfunction and mood disorders.
- These side effects are primary reasons for discontinuing IFN treatment, with depression rates nearing 50% in some studies.
- Pre-existing depressive symptoms can predict the development of mood disorders during IFN therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and management of IFN-induced neuropsychiatric side effects.
- To explore potential mechanisms underlying IFN neurotoxicity.
- To emphasize the importance of screening and assessment during IFN therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on IFN therapy and associated neuropsychiatric effects.
- Analysis of factors influencing the risk and severity of side effects, such as dose and duration.
- Examination of proposed neurobiological mechanisms, including endocrine and neurotransmitter pathways.
Main Results:
- IFN-induced depression and cognitive dysfunction are common, impacting treatment adherence.
- Different symptom clusters may correlate with distinct underlying neurobiological mechanisms.
- Subjective versus objective evaluations can influence the interpretation of cognitive deficits.
Conclusions:
- Effective management requires pretreatment screening and ongoing assessment of neuropsychiatric symptoms.
- Antidepressants are effective for IFN-induced depression, supporting treatment completion.
- Antipsychotics and psychostimulants may help manage IFN-induced cognitive dysfunction.