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1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Meyer 218, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Meyer 218, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
The Medical Clinics of North America
|October 11, 2017
Summary
Cancer survivors may experience long-term cognitive impairment (CRCI), affecting memory and attention. Neuropsychological assessment can identify issues and guide interventions to improve cognitive function and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Cancer survivors face risks of acute and long-term side effects from cancer and its treatment.
- Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) presents as deficits in attention, processing speed, executive functioning, and memory, potentially lasting decades.
- While some CRCI risk factors are immutable, others are modifiable, offering opportunities for intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and impact of CRCI in cancer survivors.
- To discuss the role of neuropsychological assessment in understanding and managing CRCI.
- To emphasize the potential for improving cognitive function and quality of life through targeted interventions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on cancer-related cognitive impairment.
- Discussion of neuropsychological assessment techniques for identifying cognitive deficits.
- Exploration of psychological and behavioral contributors to CRCI.
Main Results:
- CRCI is a common and persistent issue for cancer survivors.
- Neuropsychological assessment is crucial for diagnosing specific cognitive weaknesses.
- Modifiable factors contribute to CRCI, suggesting avenues for therapeutic strategies.
Conclusions:
- Neuropsychological assessment aids in identifying cognitive strengths and weaknesses in cancer survivors.
- Targeting psychological and behavioral factors can mitigate CRCI.
- Interventions guided by assessment can improve cognitive function and quality of life for cancer survivors.
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