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Review
. 2011 Jun;38(3):431-8.
doi: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2011.03.014.

An update on cancer- and chemotherapy-related cognitive dysfunction: current status

Michelle C Janelsins  1 , Sadhna Kohli, Supriya G Mohile, Kenneth Usuki, Tim A Ahles, Gary R Morrow
Affiliations
Review

An update on cancer- and chemotherapy-related cognitive dysfunction: current status

Michelle C Janelsins et al. Semin Oncol. 2011 Jun.

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to summarize the current literature on the effects of cancer treatment-related cognitive difficulties, with a focus on the effects of chemotherapy. Numerous patients have cognitive difficulties during and after cancer treatments and, for some, these effects last years after treatment. We do not yet fully understand which factors increase susceptibility to cognitive difficulties during treatment and which cause persistent problems. We review possible contributors, including genetic and biological factors. Mostly we focus is on cognitive effects of adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer; however, cognitive effects of chemotherapy on the elderly and brain tumor patients are also discussed.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1. POSSIBLE CONTRIBUTORS TO COGNITIVE DIFFICULTIES IN CANCER PATIENTS
Multiple factors can contribute to cognitive difficulties in cancer patients. Physiological factors, such as the patient’s genetic make-up and hormone levels, and the inflammatory response to cancer treatments may also cause cognitive difficulties. Some can also be psychological factors such as anxiety, depression and stress that increase vulnerability to development of cognitive difficulties. Bolded topics are discussed within this review.
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References

    1. Janelsins M, Roscoe JA, Jean-Pierre P, Morrow GR. Cognitive Functioning in Breast Cancer Patients During and Following Chemotherapy. Supplement to American Society of Clinical Oncology. 2009;47 Abstract.
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    1. Wefel JS, et al. The cognitive sequelae of standard-dose adjuvant chemotherapy in women with breast carcinoma: results of a prospective, randomized, longitudinal trial. Cancer. 2004;100(11):2292–9. - PubMed

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