COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT FOLLOWING ANTICANCER CHEMOTHERAPY. A REVIEW

Abstract

Cancer chemotherapy is frequently associated with cognitive deficits which may remain after treatment. This manuscript reviews research genetic, animal model, imaging and neuropsychological studies concerning chemotherapy induced cognitive impairment. In elderly patients with cancer many factors including the biological process of the disease and the administered therapies would contribute to cognitive decline. A subgroup of patients is particularly vulnerable to post-treatment changes. Cognitive deficits comprise impairment of memory, information processing speed or executive functions. It is therefore important to use a panel of sensitive screening tests so as to assess the full range of cognitive deterioration following chemotherapy. Finally, recent scientific data shed light on promising symptomatic or etiological treatments of the disorder.