Effect of Insular Glioma on Cognitive Function and Language

Though insula is located close to several functional areas subserving higher mental function, only a few present with cognitive decline. A detailed neuropsychological assessment is needed to detect subtle impairments that may be missed on routine clinical examination. Detailed examination of cognition and language function in patients with insular glioma and their comparison with healthy controls. Forty-six cases of insular glioma and 30 healthy controls were evaluated with Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) score and Western Aphasia Battery of Tests (WAB). The results were then compared between these two groups. Three (6.5%) patients reported dysfunction in language and memory that affected their profession. The median score with interquartile range for MOCA was 27 (24-29) among controls and 20 (18-25) among cases. The values of individual domains of MOCA were significantly higher among controls than cases. The scores of WAB were higher in the control than patients and were statistically significant in aphasia quotient (P = 0.003), naming (P = 0.00), and comprehension (P = 0.015). Scores for recall memory, naming, and repetition were significantly lower for left-sided lesions. The use of a detailed neuropsychological assessment is essential to reveal subtle cognitive impairment in patients with insular glioma.