Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment or « chemobrain »: concept and state of art

Abstract

Cognitive complaints are frequent in patients who received chemotherapy for a non-CNS cancer. These observations have been described as « chemobrain ». However, studies results are contradictory concerning the implication of chemotherapy in the onset of cognitive defects. Moreover, other factors as mood, anxiety and fatigue are often associated in this population and could be confounding. This article present principal results of research in human experiencing chemobrain, concerning clinical presentation, neuropsychological examination, imaging techniques and treatment possibilities. Physiopathological hypothesis are presented. The implication of hormonotherapy is also discussed.

Keywords: cancer; chemobrain; chemotherapy; hormonotherapy.