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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
10:10
Quantifying Cognitive Decrements Caused by Cranial Radiotherapy
Published on: October 18, 2011
Cancer treatment-related cognitive impairment
Bryan J Neth1, Sanne B Schagen2,3, Jeffrey S Wefel4,5
1Department of Neurology and Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
Neuro-Oncology Advances
|June 24, 2026
Summary
Cancer survivors often experience cognitive impairment, affecting memory and processing speed. This review explores causes, risk factors, and biomarkers for cancer-related cognitive dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Cancer survivorship is increasing due to advances in diagnosis and treatment.
- Cognitive impairment is a prevalent and impactful symptom for cancer survivors, affecting quality of life.
- Impairment can persist long-term, impacting patients and their care partners.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the nature and patterns of cognitive changes in cancer survivors.
- To explore the mechanisms and risk factors contributing to cancer-related cognitive impairment.
- To identify potential biomarkers for early detection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing knowledge on cancer-related cognitive impairment.
- Synthesis of data on prevalence, affected cognitive domains, and contributing factors.
- Examination of research on underlying mechanisms and potential biomarkers.
Main Results:
- Cognitive impairment affects up to 75% of survivors with systemic malignancies, persisting in 35% long-term.
- Common deficits include memory, processing speed, and executive function.
- Impairment is linked to various cancer therapies including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Cancer-related cognitive impairment is a significant, multifactorial issue affecting survivors.
- Understanding mechanisms and risk factors is crucial for developing interventions.
- Biomarker research is needed to aid in identifying and managing cognitive changes.
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