Neuropsychologic (cognitive) disabilities in long-term survivors of childhood cancer

Intelligence and academic achievement testing of long-term survivors of childhood cancer reveal a high incidence of memory deficits, visual-spatial skill impairment, and attention deficit disorders. While the results of various studies must be interpreted carefully, the data available identify CNS irradiation and the toxic synergism of CNS irradiation and intrathecal chemotherapy as primary etiologic factors in the neuropsychologic sequelae of curative therapy. Early education intervention is mandatory to identify survivors of childhood cancer who require assistance in overcoming intellectual disabilities.