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Cognitive Functions under Anti-HER2 Targeted Therapy in Cancer Patients: A Scoping Review
Javier García-Sánchez1, María D Torregrosa1, Omar Cauli2
1Medical Oncology Department, Doctor Peset University Hospital, Valencia, Spain.
Abstract:
Pharmacological therapy targeting the HER2 protein is one of the major breakthroughs in the treatment of cancer patients overexpressing HER2 who have increased survival rates. Despite improved survival, it is important to determine the less frequent adverse effects in order to tailor treatments more personalized to the patients' features. The possible impact of cancer treatments on cognitive functions is huge, and the effects of anti-HER 2 therapies on this issue have not been reviewed and are the objective of this study. Analysis of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane library and Web of Science databases revealed six studies performed in breast and serous uterine cancer patients analyzing cognitive function under chemotherapy regimens including anti-HER2 drugs. Four of these studies reported small to significant worsening of cognitive function following chemotherapy regimens containing trastuzumab (the most widely used anti-HER2 drug). In neoadjuvant settings, and in breast cancer patients, treatment with the new anti-HER-2 drug trastuzumab emtansine seems to induce less cognitive impairment than therapeutic regimens containing chemotherapy and trastuzumab. Acute administration of trastuzumab induced cognitive impairment in gastric cancer mice models, confirming its ability to alter cognitive function in patients. More studies analyzing the impact of anti-HER2 therapy on cognitive function are necessary at preclinical and clinical levels in order to personalize pharmacological treatment and offer cancer patients a better quality of life.
Insights
Anti-HER2 therapies, like trastuzumab, can impact cognitive function in cancer patients. Further research is needed to understand and manage these side effects for better patient care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- HER2-targeted therapies have improved survival for HER2-overexpressing cancers.
- Adverse effects of cancer treatments, particularly on cognitive function, require further investigation.
- The impact of anti-HER2 therapies on cognition remains under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of anti-HER2 therapies on cognitive function in cancer patients.
- To identify specific anti-HER2 drugs and treatment regimens associated with cognitive impairment.
- To highlight the need for personalized treatment strategies considering cognitive side effects.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science.
- Analysis of six studies involving breast and serous uterine cancer patients.
- Inclusion of preclinical data from gastric cancer mouse models.
Main Results:
- Four studies reported cognitive function worsening with trastuzumab-containing regimens.
- Trastuzumab emtansine may cause less cognitive impairment than chemotherapy plus trastuzumab in neoadjuvant breast cancer.
- Trastuzumab induced cognitive impairment in preclinical gastric cancer models.
Conclusions:
- Anti-HER2 therapies, particularly trastuzumab, can negatively affect cognitive function.
- Trastuzumab emtansine shows potential for reduced cognitive side effects.
- Further preclinical and clinical studies are essential for personalized anti-HER2 treatment and improved quality of life.
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