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Neuropsychological Outcome in Survivors of Childhood Brain Tumors

Pediatric brain tumors can result in extensive neuropsychological deficits for some individuals because of their invasive impact on the developing brain. Research suggests that young adult brain tumor survivors may experience delayed processing speed and executive functioning strategies, impairing their ability to be successful at school, work, and activities of daily living. Deficits in processing speed and executive functioning may not be apparent during childhood when accommodations can be made at school or with parental supervision. The aims of this study are to: 1. Determine processing speed and executive functioning in young adult survivors of childhood brain tumors; and 2. Compare differences in cognitive outcomes between survivors treated with whole brain irradiation vs. partial brain irradiation vs. surgery alone. This study can form the beginning of an understanding of the late effects from early treatment in the functional trajectory of the developing brain. Furthermore, the results can potentially provide a basis for studies of basic mechanisms accounting for these late effects as well as cognitive outcome goals for newer therapies.

Updated 7/2/2002