Clinical Report: Cognitive Dysfunction Associated with Chemotherapy
Overview
This systematic review highlights the prevalence of chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) among cancer survivors and evaluates non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving cognitive function. Mild improvements in cognitive outcomes were observed across various studies, though limitations in study design were noted.
Background
Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is a significant concern for cancer survivors, affecting memory, attention, and executive function, which can severely impact quality of life. With the increasing number of cancer survivors, understanding and addressing CRCI is crucial for enhancing survivorship care. Non-pharmacological interventions may offer promising avenues for mitigating these cognitive deficits.
Data Highlights
No numerical data available; findings are qualitative in nature.
Key Findings
CRCI affects both subjective and objective cognitive measures in cancer survivors.
Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria, including nine randomized controlled trials.
Interventions included transcranial direct current stimulation, acupuncture, and multisensory stimulation.
Mild improvements in cognitive outcomes were reported, but studies had limitations such as small sample sizes and lack of control groups.
There is a need for larger, well-designed trials to validate the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for CRCI.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare professionals should be aware of the cognitive challenges faced by cancer survivors and consider non-pharmacological interventions as part of survivorship care. Further research is needed to establish effective strategies for mitigating CRCI and improving quality of life.
Conclusion
The review underscores the importance of addressing CRCI in cancer survivors and the potential role of non-pharmacological interventions, while highlighting the need for more robust clinical trials to confirm these findings.
by Norbert Dosa, Intouch Limvaree, Camila Bonin Pinto, Faddi Saleh Velez, Zalan Kaposzta, Zsofia Szarvas, Zachary C. Pope, Anna Csiszar, Wajeeha Razaq, Ryan D. Nipp, Andriy Yabluchanskiy, Peter Mukli
