Mental function following scalp irradiation during childhood

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Radiation Oncology
• Public Health

Background:

• A 1950s-1960s Israeli public health campaign treated 20,000 children for tinea capitis using x-ray therapy.
• Dosimetric studies indicated a mean brain radiation dose of 130 rads for these children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate long-term central nervous system (CNS) effects in children irradiated for tinea capitis.
• To assess potential radiation-induced damage to cognitive and mental health functions.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of cognitive and mental health measures in ~11,000 irradiated children versus two non-irradiated control groups (general population and siblings).
• Evaluation included scholastic aptitude, IQ, psychologic tests, educational attainment, and mental hospital admission rates.

Main Results:

• Irradiated children showed a consistent trend towards CNS impairment compared to controls.
• Lower scores on scholastic aptitude, IQ, and psychologic tests were observed.
• Increased mental hospital admissions and fewer completed school grades were noted, with a suggestion of higher mental retardation frequency.

Conclusions:

• Radiation exposure to the immature brain may cause lasting damage to the central nervous system.
• Long-term scholastic and mental health effects are associated with childhood cranial radiation therapy.