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. 2019 Jan;141(2):393-401.
doi: 10.1007/s11060-018-03045-3. Epub 2018 Nov 20.

Neurocognitive function, performance status, and quality of life in pediatric intracranial germ cell tumor survivors

Winnie Wan Yee Tso #  1 , Anthony Pak Yin Liu #  1 , Tatia Mei Chun Lee  2   3 , Ka Leung Cheuk  1 , Ming Kong Shing  4 , Chung Wing Luk  5 , Siu Cheung Ling  6 , Dennis Tak Loi Ku  7 , Kenneth Li  8 , Ada Wing Yan Yung  1 , Cheuk Wing Fung  1 , Sophelia Hoi Shan Chan  1 , Alvin Chi Chung Ho  1 , Frederick Ka Wing Ho  1 , Patrick Ip  9 , Godfrey Chi Fung Chan  10
Affiliations

Neurocognitive function, performance status, and quality of life in pediatric intracranial germ cell tumor survivors

Winnie Wan Yee Tso et al. J Neurooncol. 2019 Jan.

Abstract

Background: Intracranial germ cell tumors (GCT) are more common in Asia than in the West, accounting for about 15% of brain tumors in Asian children. The survival rate for intracranial GCT is excellent, but there are concerns about the effects of radiotherapy on neuropsychological function and quality of life of patients.

Methods: Intracranial germ cell tumors (GCT) are more common in Asia than in the West, accounting for about 15% of brain tumors in Asian children. The survival rate for intracranial GCT is excellent, but there are concerns about the effects of radiotherapy on neuropsychological function and quality of life of patients. Intracranial GCT survivors in Hong Kong aged ≥ 6 years who received cranial irradiation in the past 15 years were recruited. Neurocognitive function and performance status were assessed by the Hong Kong Wechsler Intelligence scale and Karnofsky/Lansky performance scales (KPS), respectively. Quality of life was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Generic Core Scales. A chart review was performed for tumor characteristics and complications related to the tumor and its treatment.

Results: Twenty-five intracranial GCT survivors were recruited. Longer length of time since treatment was associated with lower IQ scores. Larger tumor size was associated with lower KPS scores. Hemiparesis, poor manual dexterity, and complications with multi-organ involvement were associated with significantly lower KPS scores. Higher irradiation dosage was associated with lower PedsQL physical scores.

Conclusions: The majority of GCT survivors had average intellectual functioning, satisfactory performance status and relatively good quality of life, except in the physical aspect. Comprehensive evaluation and long-term follow-up of GCT survivors are essential to provide timely support and improve long-term outcomes.

Keywords: Cancer survivors; Health-related quality of life; Intracranial germ cell tumors; Neurocognitive function; Performance status.

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