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Sleurs C, Fletcher P, Mallucci C, Avula S, Ajithkumar T. Neurocognitive Dysfunction After Treatment for Pediatric Brain Tumors: Subtype-Specific Findings and Proposal for Brain Network-Informed Evaluations. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:1873-1886. [PMID: 37615933 PMCID: PMC10661593 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01096-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing number of long-term survivors of pediatric brain tumors requires us to incorporate the most recent knowledge derived from cognitive neuroscience into their oncological treatment. As the lesion itself, as well as each treatment, can cause specific neural damage, the long-term neurocognitive outcomes are highly complex and challenging to assess. The number of neurocognitive studies in this population grows exponentially worldwide, motivating modern neuroscience to provide guidance in follow-up before, during and after treatment. In this review, we provide an overview of structural and functional brain connectomes and their role in the neuropsychological outcomes of specific brain tumor types. Based on this information, we propose a theoretical neuroscientific framework to apply appropriate neuropsychological and imaging follow-up for future clinical care and rehabilitation trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Sleurs
- Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology, Tilburg University, 5037 AB, Tilburg, The Netherlands.
- Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Paul Fletcher
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
- Wellcome Trust MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Conor Mallucci
- Department of Neurosurgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L14 5AB, UK
| | - Shivaram Avula
- Department of Radiology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L14 5AB, UK
| | - Thankamma Ajithkumar
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospital NHS Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
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Castle-Kirszbaum M, Shi MDY, Goldschlager T. Quality of Life in Craniopharyngioma: A Systematic Review. World Neurosurg 2022; 164:424-435.e2. [PMID: 35580780 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Craniopharyngiomas are morbid tumors that significantly reduce patients' quality of life (QoL). The lifelong burden of endocrine, visual, hypothalamic, and limbic dysfunction can have disastrous consequences for the physical and psychosocial health of patients. Elucidating the factors that influence QoL could guide therapeutic interventions to improve patient well-being. METHODS A systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) statement using the PubMed and Medline databases. Studies that had reported patient QoL using validated metrics in both adult and pediatric populations were included. Bias and methodological rigor were assessed using the MINORS (methodological index for nonrandomized studies) criteria. RESULTS A total of 25 studies, including 2025 patients, were available for review. Most studies were small, retrospective, cohort studies with a high risk of bias. The QoL of the patients with craniopharyngioma was lower than that of the general population. Hypothalamic involvement was consistently the strongest predictor of QoL. Endocrinopathy contributed to morbidity but could be ameliorated by hormone replacement therapy. Social and emotional dysregulation and a poor memory are common complaints after surgery, and iatrogenic damage to the infundibulum, hypothalamus, limbic system, and frontal lobes might underlie these concerns. Sleep-wake cycle dysfunction and hypothalamic obesity are serious consequences of hypothalamic damage. CONCLUSIONS An experienced multidisciplinary team is necessary to optimally manage the complex cases of these patients. The poor QoL of patients with craniopharyngioma is multifactorial. However, the contribution of iatrogenesis is not insubstantial. Improved surgical techniques, focusing on hypothalamic preservation, and adjuvant treatment options are required to improve the well-being of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mendel Castle-Kirszbaum
- Department of Neurosurgery, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Surgery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Margaret D Y Shi
- Department of Surgery, Northern Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tony Goldschlager
- Department of Neurosurgery, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Surgery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Giese H, Haenig B, Haenig A, Unterberg A, Zweckberger K. Neurological and neuropsychological outcome after resection of craniopharyngiomas. J Neurosurg 2020; 132:1425-1434. [PMID: 31003210 DOI: 10.3171/2018.10.jns181557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Craniopharyngiomas are rare and benign tumors of the sellar and/or parasellar region. Primary treatment involves resection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy. While the grade of resection was frequently analyzed following surgery, the neurological outcome and especially neuropsychological deficits and quality of life have been neglected for many decades. Therefore, the authors retrospectively analyzed their patient series and prospectively assessed neuropsychological outcome and quality of life following resection of craniopharyngiomas in adults. METHODS In total, 71 patients (39 men and 32 women) with a mean age of 49 years were enrolled in the retrospective analysis. In addition, 36 of the 71 patients were included in the prospective arm of the study and underwent neurological and neuropsychological testing as well as quality of life (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey; SF-36) assessment. Factors influencing outcome were identified and correlations calculated. RESULTS Resection was performed mostly using a pterional (41.6%, 47/113 surgical procedures) or bifrontal translamina terminalis (30.1%, 34/113 surgical procedures) approach. Following surgery, visual acuity was significantly improved (> 0.2 diopters) in 32.4% (23/71) of patients, or remained stable in 45.1% (32/71) of patients. During long-term follow up, 80.3% (57/71) of patients developed pituitary insufficiency, particularly involving the corticotropic and thyrotrophic axes. In total, 75% (27/36) of patients showed neuropsychological deviations in at least 1 test item. In particular, attentiveness, cognitive speed, and short-term memory were affected. Referring to the SF-36 score, quality of life was affected in both the mental and physical score in 19.4% (7/36) and 33.3% (12/36), respectively. The risk factors that were identified were a tumor volume larger than 9 cm3, tumor extension toward/into the third ventricle or the brainstem, and resection using a bifrontal translamina terminalis or left-sided approach. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that resection of craniopharyngiomas is frequently associated with postoperative neuropsychological deficits and hence an impaired quality of life. In addition to tumor size and extension toward/into the third ventricle or the brainstem, selection of the surgical approach may play a crucial role in the patient's neuropsychological outcome and quality of life.
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Müller HL. MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Childhood-onset craniopharyngioma: state of the art of care in 2018. Eur J Endocrinol 2019; 180:R159-R174. [PMID: 30817319 DOI: 10.1530/eje-18-1021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This review presents an update on current concepts of pathogenesis, diagnostics, multidisciplinary treatment and follow-up care, with special focus on neuropsychological sequelae of childhood-onset craniopharyngioma (CP) based on most recent publications on these topics. Recent insight in molecular pathogenesis of CP opens new perspectives on targeted therapy. Further research to elucidate pathogenic mechanisms and to prevent hypothalamic involvement of CP is warranted. Surgical treatment strategies should be based on a multidisciplinary approach involving experienced teams aiming at posterior hypothalamus-sparing treatment for prevention of quality of life impairments. Centralization of CP treatment in experienced 'centers of excellence' is recommended. However, such centralization includes high thresholds concerning infrastructure not achievable in all health systems. Alternatives such as multicenter-based networks used for reference assessments should be considered to assure high standards of treatment quality. Irradiation is efficient in preventing further growth or recurrence in CP patients with residual tumor. Proton beam therapy - available on a wider range in the near future - will help to avoid radiooncological side effects. Novel insights into neuropsychological sequelae after CP should be the basis for the development of future therapeutic neuropsychological interventions. Due to the rareness of the disease, common international efforts in research and treatment are recommended and should lead to an international registry for childhood-onset CP, as a first step toward efficient coordination of scientific and clinical initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann L Müller
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Childrens Hospital, Klinikum Oldenburg AöR, Oldenburg, Germany
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Neurocognitive functioning in pediatric craniopharyngioma: performance before treatment with proton therapy. J Neurooncol 2017; 134:97-105. [PMID: 28540667 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-017-2492-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of patient-, disease-, and treatment-related variables upon neurocognitive outcomes in pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma prior to treatment with proton therapy or observation after radical resection. For all participants (N = 104), relevant clinical and demographic variables were attained and neurocognitive evaluations completed prior to irradiation or planned observation. One-sample t-tests were conducted to compare performance to published normative data. Linear models were used to investigate predictors of performance on measures where performance was below normative expectations. Participants showed poorer performance in comparison to the normative group across neurocognitive domains including executive functions (e.g., working memory; Wechsler Digit Span Backward p = 0.03), learning and memory (e.g., California Verbal Learning Test [CVLT] Total T p = 0.00), and fine-motor coordination (e.g., Grooved Pegboard Dominant Hand p = 0.00). Poor performance across areas was predicted by presurgical hypothalamic involvement (e.g., Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function Working Memory Index Grade 2 β = -7.68, p = 0.03; CVLT Total T Grade 2 β = 7.94, p = 0.04; Grade 3 β = -9.80, p = 0.00), extent of surgery (e.g., CVLT Total T Resection β = -7.77, p = 0.04; Grooved Pegboard Dominant Hand β = -1.58, p = 0.04), and vision status (e.g., CVLT Total T Reduced vision without impairment β = -10.01, p = 0.02; Grooved Pegboard Dominant Hand Bilateral field defect β = -1.45, p = 0.01; Reduced vision without impairment β = -2.30, p = 0.00). This study demonstrated that patients with craniopharyngioma show weaker neurocognitive performance in comparison to the normative population resulting from tumor, events leading to diagnosis, and early surgical intervention. Systematic investigation of neurocognitive performance before treatment with radiation therapy is essential to evaluating the potential risks and benefits of newer methods of radiation therapy including proton therapy.
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Preece D, Allan A, Becerra R. A case study of the neuropsychological outcomes following microsurgery, conventional radiotherapy and stereotactic radiotherapy for an adult's recurrent craniopharyngioma. Brain Inj 2016; 30:104-11. [PMID: 26736032 DOI: 10.3109/02699052.2015.1104552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the neuropsychological outcomes for an adult patient, 2 years after receiving microsurgery and conventional radiotherapy for a recurrent craniopharyngioma; and the impact of a further intervention, stereotactic radiotherapy, on this level of neuropsychological functioning. PARTICIPANT JD, a 30 year old male whose recurrent craniopharyngioma had 2 years earlier been treated with two operations and conventional radiotherapy. DESIGN JD was assessed (using standardized clinical tests) before and after a course of stereotactic radiotherapy. RESULTS Prior to stereotactic radiotherapy (and 2 years after microsurgery and conventional radiotherapy) JD's IQ was intact, but considerable impairments were present in executive functioning, memory, theory of mind and processing speed. Fifteen months after stereotactic radiotherapy, all neuropsychological domains remained largely static or improved, supporting the utility of this treatment option in the neuropsychological domain. However, deficits in executive functioning, memory and processing speed remained. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that, even after multiple treatments, substantial cognitive impairments can be present in an adult patient with a recurrent craniopharyngioma. This profile of deficits underlines the inadequacy of relying purely on IQ as a marker for cognitive health in this population and emphasizes the need to include neuropsychological impairments as a focus of rehabilitation with these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Preece
- a School of Psychology and Social Science, Edith Cowan University , Perth WA , Australia
| | - Alfred Allan
- a School of Psychology and Social Science, Edith Cowan University , Perth WA , Australia
| | - Rodrigo Becerra
- a School of Psychology and Social Science, Edith Cowan University , Perth WA , Australia
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Özyurt J, Müller HL, Thiel CM. A systematic review of cognitive performance in patients with childhood craniopharyngioma. J Neurooncol 2015; 125:9-21. [PMID: 26369768 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-015-1885-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Craniopharyngiomas are rare brain tumors of the sellar/suprasellar region, often adversely affecting patients' physical and psychosocial functioning. Until a few years ago, knowledge on cognitive deficits in craniopharyngioma patients was based on little valid evidence, with considerable inconsistencies across studies. Findings from recent research, with partly larger sample sizes, add to existing evidence to provide a more clear and reliable picture. The current review aims to summarize and systemize current findings on cognitive deficits in childhood craniopharyngioma, taking account of patient- and treatment-related variables where possible. Those studies were included that reported results of childhood craniopharyngioma patients tested with formalized neuropsychological tests (irrespective of their age at study, group size ≥10). A systematic assignment of test results to subcomponents of broader cognitive domains (e.g. to specific memory systems and processes) allows for a first comprehensive overview of patterns of spared and impaired cognitive functions. We show that episodic memory recall in particular is impaired, largely sparing other memory components. In accordance with recent knowledge on mammillary function, patients with hypothalamic involvement appear to be at particular risk. Deficits in higher cognitive processes, relying on the integrity of the prefrontal cortex and its subcortical pathways, may also occur, but results are still inconsistent. To gain deeper insight into the pattern of deficits and their association with patient- and treatment-related variables, further multi-site research with larger cohorts is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jale Özyurt
- Biological Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Carl von Ossietzky Universität, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany.
| | - Hermann L Müller
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Zentrum für Kinder-und Jugendmedizin, Klinikum Oldenburg, Medical Campus University Oldenburg, 26133, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Christiane M Thiel
- Biological Psychology Lab, Department of Psychology, European Medical School, Carl von Ossietzky Universität, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky Universität, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all", Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
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Zada G, Kintz N, Pulido M, Amezcua L. Prevalence of neurobehavioral, social, and emotional dysfunction in patients treated for childhood craniopharyngioma: a systematic literature review. PLoS One 2013; 8:e76562. [PMID: 24223703 PMCID: PMC3818366 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 08/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Craniopharyngiomas (CP) are locally invasive and frequently recurring neoplasms often resulting in neurological and endocrinological dysfunction in children. In addition, social-behavioral impairment is commonly reported following treatment for childhood CP, yet remains to be fully understood. The authors aimed to further characterize the prevalence of neurobehavioral, social, and emotional dysfunction in survivors of childhood craniopharyngiomas. Materials and Methods A systematic literature review was conducted in PubMed to identify studies formally assessing neurobehavioral, social, and emotional outcomes in patients treated for CP prior to 18 years of age. Studies published between the years 1990-2012 that reported the primary outcome (prevalence of neurobehavioral, social, emotional/affective dysfunction, and/or impaired quality of life (QoL)) in ≥10 patients were included. Results Of the 471 studies screened, 11 met inclusion criteria. Overall neurobehavioral dysfunction was reported in 51 of 90 patients (57%) with available data. Social impairment (i.e. withdrawal, internalizing behavior) was reported in 91 of 222 cases (41%). School dysfunction was reported in 48 of 136 patients (35%). Emotional/affective dysfunction was reported in 58 of 146 patients (40%), primarily consisting of depressive symptoms. Health related quality of life was affected in 49 of 95 patients (52%). Common descriptors of behavior in affected children included irritability, impulsivity, aggressiveness, and emotional outbursts. Conclusions Neurobehavioral, social, and emotional impairment is highly prevalent in survivors of childhood craniopharyngioma, and often affects quality of life. Thorough neurobehavioral/emotional screening and appropriate counseling is recommended in this population. Additional research is warranted to identify risk factors and treatment strategies for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Zada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Natalie Kintz
- The George and MaryLou Boone Center for Parkinson’s Disease Research, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Mario Pulido
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Lilyana Amezcua
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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Di Pinto M, Conklin HM, Li C, Merchant TE. Learning and memory following conformal radiation therapy for pediatric craniopharyngioma and low-grade glioma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2012; 84:e363-9. [PMID: 22867897 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2012.03.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Revised: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary objective of this study was to examine whether children with low-grade glioma (LGG) or craniopharyngioma had impaired learning and memory after conformal radiation therapy (CRT). A secondary objective was to determine whether children who received chemotherapy before CRT, a treatment often used to delay radiation therapy in younger children with LGG, received any protective benefit with respect to learning. METHODS AND MATERIALS Learning and memory in 57 children with LGG and 44 children with craniopharyngioma were assessed with the California Verbal Learning Test-Children's Version and the Visual-Auditory Learning tests. Learning measures were administered before CRT, 6 months later, and then yearly for a total of 5 years. RESULTS No decline in learning scores after CRT was observed when patients were grouped by diagnosis. For children with LGG, chemotherapy before CRT did not provide a protective effect on learning. Multiple regression analyses, which accounted for age and tumor volume and location, found that children treated with chemotherapy before CRT were at greater risk of decline on learning measures than those treated with CRT alone. Variables predictive of learning and memory decline included hydrocephalus, shunt insertion, younger age at time of treatment, female gender, and pre-CRT chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS This study did not reveal any impairment or decline in learning after CRT in overall aggregate learning scores. However, several important variables were found to have a significant effect on neurocognitive outcome. Specifically, chemotherapy before CRT was predictive of worse outcome on verbal learning in LGG patients. In addition, hydrocephalus and shunt insertion in craniopharyngioma were found to be predictive of worse neurocognitive outcome, suggesting a more aggressive natural history for those patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Di Pinto
- Department of Pediatric Psychology, Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, California, USA
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Abstract
The surgical management of craniopharyngiomas in children remains one of the more controversial topics in pediatric neurosurgery. Theoretically, the benign histology implies that total surgical excision would be sufficient to provide a cure. It has been widely established however, that in certain cases total excision may lead to unacceptable hypothalamic injury. The therapeutic goals for pediatric craniopharyngiomas therefore, require not just cure of the disease but also preservation of function. Over the last 15 years, there has been a growing worldwide advocacy for less extensive resection and for the utilization of multimodality therapy to limit morbidity. With this in mind, risk-adapted strategies designed to preserve hypothalamic structures have been developed. The preliminary results of these strategies appear to be encouraging. However, the long-term clinical outcome in terms of post irradiation complications and management of relapses is currently unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Puget
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Necker Hospital, Université Paris DescartesParis, France
- *Correspondence: Stéphanie Puget, Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Necker Hospital, Université Paris Descartes, 149 rue de Sèvres, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris 75015, France. e-mail:
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Ondruch A, Maryniak A, Kropiwnicki T, Roszkowski M, Daszkiewicz P. Cognitive and social functioning in children and adolescents after the removal of craniopharyngioma. Childs Nerv Syst 2011; 27:391-7. [PMID: 20931204 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-010-1301-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 09/28/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to assess cognitive, emotional and social functioning in children and adolescents after the removal of craniopharyngioma. METHODS Twenty-seven children operated for craniopharyngioma and their parents participated in the study. Cognitive functions were assessed with WISC-R/WAIS-R-PL and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test. Parents completed Achenbach's Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) questionnaires on problems in functioning and psychopathological symptoms and took part in an interview on children coping in everyday life. RESULTS Eighty-two percent of patients were diagnosed with an average level of intellectual functioning. No child received results indicating mental disability. In half of the children, effectiveness of visual memory was reduced, despite normal visual-spatial abilities. The results in the CBCL scale indicated more frequent presence of psychopathological symptoms-especially social problems, depression, anxiety and withdrawal. The most frequent problems in children's everyday functioning included inability to control emotions, difficulties in learning, unsatisfactory peer relationships, and unattractive appearance resulting from hormonal disorders (short height and obesity). One third of parents also reported problems with pathological appetite in their children. CONCLUSIONS Despite normal intellectual abilities and relatively good physical condition, children after removal of craniopharyngioma experience many difficulties in everyday life regarding social relationships, emotion control and learning. The analogy between the above-mentioned symptoms and symptoms observed in patients after infantile damage in the frontal area leads to an observation that, apart from endocrine disorders, damage to the frontal lobe caused by the growth of tumour and operational intervention is of crucial importance to the further development of children with craniopharyngioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Ondruch
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Memorial Health Institute, Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland.
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