Affiliations: Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and
University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA | Texas Children's Hospital and Baylor College of
Medicine, Texas, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Marsha N. Gragert, Ph.D., ABPP-Cn, Section
of Psychology, 6701 Fannin St., CC1630.00, Houston, TX 77030-2399, USA. E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: The modern era of research into the neurobehavioral late effects of
pediatric brain tumor has been one of refinement in outcome measurement and
advances in identification of risk factors for neurobehavioral impairment.
There is no neuropsychological phenotype that encompasses all tumor types,
treatments, and risk factors, though attention, working memory, processing
speed, new learning, visuospatial and visuomotor functioning, executive
functioning, and areas of academic achievement have been found to be at
particular risk. Additional socioemotional and broader quality of life problems
have been found in both survivors and their families. Past research has
identified neuropsychological risk factors that include tumor location,
radiation therapy and dose, certain chemotherapy agents, neurological
complications, and demographic factors such as young age and female gender.
Recent refinement in measurement of risk is improving our prediction of
neurobehavioral outcomes. Neuropsychological and psychosocial interventions are
now being developed, and the evidence base supporting these interventions is
growing. Simultaneous advances in each of these areas will facilitate
translation of research into risk-adapted rehabilitative care such that
resources can be most effectively re-allocated and the best possible outcomes achieved.
Keywords: Neuropsychology, pediatric brain tumor, rehabilitation, cognitive late effects
