Effect of Insular Glioma on Cognitive Function and Language

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neurology
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• The insula's proximity to critical functional areas makes insular gliomas a concern for cognitive function.
• Subtle cognitive decline in insular glioma patients may be missed by routine clinical evaluations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a detailed neuropsychological assessment of patients with insular glioma.
• To compare cognitive and language functions in insular glioma patients versus healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• Forty-six insular glioma patients and 30 healthy controls underwent assessment using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) and Western Aphasia Battery (WAB).
• Statistical comparisons were made between the patient and control groups.

Main Results:

• Insular glioma patients scored significantly lower on both MOCA and WAB compared to controls.
• Specific deficits were noted in aphasia quotient, naming, and comprehension.
• Left-sided lesions correlated with lower scores in recall memory, naming, and repetition.

Conclusions:

• Detailed neuropsychological assessments are essential for identifying subtle cognitive impairments in insular glioma patients.
• Cognitive and language functions are significantly affected in individuals with insular gliomas.