Cognitive Predictors of Adaptive Functioning Vary According to Pediatric Brain Tumor Location

Abstract

This archival study sought to determine if the relationship between cognitive and adaptive abilities varied according to brain tumor location. Participants were 36 children treated for brain tumors. The best cognitive predictors of adaptive functioning were hypothesized to be attention span within the cerebellar group and verbal memory within the third ventricle group. Auditory attention span significantly predicted communication skills for the cerebellar group, whereas verbal memory significantly predicted socialization skills for the third ventricle group. These findings suggest that cognitive predictors vary according to tumor location, and highlight the need for more research examining adaptive functioning and its correlates.

Cumulative neurological factors associated with long-term outcomes in adult survivors of childhood brain tumors

“…Studies have documented lower or suboptimal intellectual and adaptive outcomes in pediatric brain tumor survivors compared to their healthy peers (Beebe et al, 2005;Papazoglou, King, Morris, & Krawiecki, 2008). Longitudinal studies have reported that these children are acquiring intellectual and adaptive skills at a slower rate relative to their same age peers but are not losing skills over time (Netson, Conklin, Wu, Xiong, & Merchant, 2013;Palmer et al, 2001).…”

Neurocognitive and Family Functioning and Quality of Life Among Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Brain Tumors

“…The type and severity of neurocognitive late effects experienced typically are related to the tumor location (King et al, 2004; Mulhern, Hancock, Fairclough, & Kun, 1992; Papazoglou, King, Morris, & Krawiecki, 2008), patient age at diagnosis (Mulhern et al, 2001; Sands et al, 2001), and the specific combination and intensity of treatment modalities used while on therapy (Turner et al, 2009). For example, children with tumors in the third ventricle region demonstrate more difficulties with auditory verbal memory, while those with cerebellar tumors display more impairments with attention (King et al, 2004).…”

“…For example, difficulties with attention and memory can impair communication between the survivor and family members (Papazoglou et al, 2008) and deficits in working memory and processing speed may limit the types of tasks a survivor is able to complete independently. Additionally, neurocognitive impairments reduce the likelihood of full-time employment and higher incomes (Ellenberg et al, 2009), placing the burden on families to financially provide for many childhood brain tumor survivors.…”

Comparative assessment of neuro-cognitive impairments among patients with brain tumor and healthy adults

“…As previously discussed, patients with brain tumor are faced with dysfunctions in sustained and selective attention and planning, and therefore the computerized CPT, Stroop and TOL tests were regarded as trustworthy tools for assessing cognitive impairments in the present study. Comparison of cognitive disorders between brain tumor patients and healthy individuals can help to diagnose the patient's risks to prevent, cure, recognize and rehabilitate them (35). This study was accomplished through the goal of assessing neurocognitive impairments among patients with brain tumor and healthy participants comparatively based on the mentioned authentic and valid tests.…”

“…Currently, researchers are of the view that the recognition and rehabilitation of cognitive impairments may possibly help to increase life expectancy and improve the lifestyle and quality of life of brain cancer patients (4,19,30,60). The most prevalent cognitive impairments amongst brain tumor patients include disorders in attention, executive functions, visuo-spatial and constructional skills, sensory perceptual functions, language, memory and intellectual functions (35). Cognitive impairments depend on the location and type of tumor, as well as the treatment and other changes like fatigue and anxiety during sleep.…”