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Celardo G, Scaffei E, Buchignani B, Donatelli G, Costagli M, Cristofani P, Canapicchi R, Pasquariello R, Tosetti M, Battini R, Biagi L. Case report: Exploring chemoradiotherapy-induced leukoencephalopathy with 7T imaging and quantitative susceptibility mapping. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1362704. [PMID: 38419703 PMCID: PMC10899325 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1362704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are widely used in the treatment of central nervous system tumors and acute lymphocytic leukemia even in the pediatric population. However, such treatments run the risk of a broad spectrum of cognitive and neurological deficits. Even though the correlation with cognitive decline is still not clear, neuroradiological defects linked to white matter injury and vasculopathies may be identified. Thanks to the use of 7T MRI it is possible to better define the vascular pattern of the brain lesions with the added advantage of identifying their characteristics and anatomical localization, which, however, are not evident with a conventional brain scan. Moreover, the use of Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) makes it possible to discriminate between calcium deposits on vessels (chemo-radiation-induced) and hemoglobin deposition in radio-induced cavernomas, speculating, as a result, about the pathophysiology of iatrogenic brain damage. We describe the case of a 9 year-old boy with a T-type acute lymphoid leukemia who had previously been treated with polychemotherapy and high-dose RT. To better define the child's neuroradiological pattern, 7T MRI and QSM were performed in addition to conventional imaging examinations. Our case report suggests the potential usefulness of a QSM study to distinguish radio-induced vascular malformations from mineralizing microangiopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Celardo
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Scaffei
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Bianca Buchignani
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - Graziella Donatelli
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
- Imago 7 Research Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mauro Costagli
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Cristofani
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Raffaello Canapicchi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rosa Pasquariello
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michela Tosetti
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberta Battini
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Biagi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
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Perez WD, Perez-Torres CJ. Neurocognitive and radiological changes after cranial radiation therapy in humans and rodents: a systematic review. Int J Radiat Biol 2023; 99:119-137. [PMID: 35511499 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2022.2074167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiation-induced brain injury is a common long-term side effect for brain cancer survivors, leading to a reduced quality of life. Although there is growing research pertaining to this topic, the relationship between cognitive and radiologically detected lesions of radiation-induced brain injury in humans remains unclear. Furthermore, clinically translatable similarities between rodent models and human findings are also undefined. The objective of this review is to then identify the current evidence of radiation-induced brain injury in humans and to compare these findings to current rodent models of radiation-induced brain injury. METHODS This review includes an examination of the current literature on cognitive and radiological characteristics of radiation-induced brain injury in humans and rodents. A thorough search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to identify studies that performed cognitive assessments and magnetic resonance imaging techniques on either humans or rodents after cranial radiation therapy. A qualitative synthesis of the data is herein reported. RESULTS A total of 153 studies pertaining to cognitively or radiologically detected radiation injury of the brain are included in this systematic review; 106 studies provided data on humans while 47 studies provided data on rodents. Cognitive deficits in humans manifest across multiple domains after brain irradiation. Radiological evidence in humans highlight various neuroimaging-detectable changes post-irradiation. It is unclear, however, whether these findings reflect ground truth or research interests. Additionally, rodent models do not comprehensively reproduce characteristics of cognitive and radiological injury currently identified in humans. CONCLUSION This systematic review demonstrates that associations between and within cognitive and radiological radiation-induced brain injuries often rely on the type of assessment. Well-designed studies that evaluate the spectrum of potential injury are required for a precise understanding of not only the clinical significance of radiation-induced brain injury in humans, but also how to replicate injury development in pre-clinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney D Perez
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Carlos J Perez-Torres
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.,Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.,Academy of Integrated Science, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA.,School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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Phillips NS, Duke ES, Schofield HLT, Ullrich NJ. Neurotoxic Effects of Childhood Cancer Therapy and Its Potential Neurocognitive Impact. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:1752-1765. [PMID: 33886374 DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.02533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas S Phillips
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Elizabeth S Duke
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Hannah-Lise T Schofield
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA.,Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nicole J Ullrich
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Rijmenams I, Moechars D, Uyttebroeck A, Radwan A, Blommaert J, Deprez S, Sunaert S, Segers H, Gillebert CR, Lemiere J, Sleurs C. Age- and Intravenous Methotrexate-Associated Leukoencephalopathy and Its Neurological Impact in Pediatric Patients with Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081939. [PMID: 33923795 PMCID: PMC8073318 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this study, we investigated standardized post-chemotherapy magnetic resonance (MR) scans for leukoencephalopathy and patient- and treatment-related risk factors in childhood leukemia patients. As prevalence numbers are limited, our study provides the required estimations for this population. Furthermore, we demonstrate that younger patients might be more at-risk for development of leukoencephalopathy (LE), and that a higher intravenous methotrexate (IV-MTX) dose has a cumulative toxic effect, while the number of intrathecal administrations was not significantly associated with the extent of LE. This can suggest we should modify chemotherapeutic treatment regimens by decreasing the number of IV-MTX applications, with special attention for younger patients. Abstract Methotrexate (MTX) is associated with leukoencephalopathy (LE) in children treated for lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (ALL/LBL). However, large-scale studies with systematic MR acquisition and quantitative volumetric lesion information remain limited. Hence, the prevalence of lesion burdens and the potential risk factors of LE in this population are still inconclusive. FLAIR-MRI scans were acquired at the end of treatment in children who were treated for ALL/LBL, which were quantitatively analyzed for LE. Voxels were assigned to the lesion segmentation if indicated by two raters. Logistic and linear regression models were used to test whether lesion presence and size were predicted by risk factors such as age at diagnosis, gender, intrathecal (IT-) or intravenous (IV-)MTX dose, CNS invasion, and acute neurological events. Patients with a pre-existing neurological condition or low-quality MR scan were excluded from the analyses. Of the 129 patients, ten (8%) suffered from CNS invasion. Chemotherapy-associated neurological events were observed in 13 patients (10%) during therapy, and 68 patients (53%) showed LE post-treatment. LE was more frequent in cases of lower age and higher cumulative IV-MTX doses, while the extent of LE and neurological symptoms were associated only with IV-MTX doses. Neurological events were not significantly associated with LE, even though symptomatic patients demonstrated a higher ratio of LE (n = 9/13) than asymptomatic patients (n = 59/116). This study suggests leukoencephalopathy frequently occurs in both symptomatic and asymptomatic leukemia patients. Younger children and patients treated with higher cumulative IV-MTX doses might need more regular screening for early detection and follow-up of associated sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Rijmenams
- Department of Brain and Cognition, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (I.R.); (D.M.); (C.R.G.)
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.U.); (H.S.)
| | - Daan Moechars
- Department of Brain and Cognition, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (I.R.); (D.M.); (C.R.G.)
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.U.); (H.S.)
| | - Anne Uyttebroeck
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.U.); (H.S.)
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
| | - Ahmed Radwan
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Blommaert
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sabine Deprez
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefan Sunaert
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Heidi Segers
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.U.); (H.S.)
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
| | - Céline R. Gillebert
- Department of Brain and Cognition, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (I.R.); (D.M.); (C.R.G.)
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jurgen Lemiere
- Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Sleurs
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.U.); (H.S.)
- Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.R.); (J.B.); (S.D.); (S.S.)
- Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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A Review of Chronic Leukoencephalopathy among Survivors of Childhood Cancer. Pediatr Neurol 2019; 101:2-10. [PMID: 31047756 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there are an estimated 400,000 long-term survivors of childhood cancer in the United States. Chronic leukoencephalopathy is a potential devastating late effect that can manifest as a range of neurological and neurocognitive sequelae. Survivors of the acute lymphocytic leukemia, central nervous system tumors, and stem cell transplant have frequently been exposed to cranial radiation, systemic and intrathecal chemotherapy, which places them at risk of developing chronic leukoencephalopathy. Defining leukoencephalopathy and its neuroimaging characteristics, the population of survivors at risk, its long-term consequences, and identifying prevention and intervention strategies can potentially mitigate the morbidity of these survivors. Better understanding of those at risk of leukoencephalopathy and its symptoms can lead to an improved quality of life for these cancer survivors.
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Late Complications of Hematologic Diseases and Their Therapies. Hematology 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-35762-3.00093-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Robaey P, Dobkin P, Leclerc JM, Cyr F, Sauerwein C, Théorêt Y. A comprehensive model of the development of mental handicap in children treated for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: A synthesis of the literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL DEVELOPMENT 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/016502500383467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Most clinical studies addressing sequelae in children with leukaemia are not theory-driven. Nonetheless, the role of different mediating biological (e.g. cranial irradiation, chemotherapy) and psychosocial variables (e.g. family functioning) has been empirically acknowledged. In these studies, a cause-effect relationship between biological variables and cognitive deficits, sometimes complex due to multiple agents, has been hypothesised. As for the psychosocial consequences, adaptation to the cancer-related stress has been the main focus, at both the individual and family levels. In this paper, we advocate the use of a global model for the development of handicap, derived from the International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities and Handicaps (ICIDH) by the World Health Organisation. This revised model proposes that handicap is the result of complex interactions between the characteristics of a person’s impairment, disabilities, and the characteristics of the environment. At each of these levels, risk/resilience factors are defined. This means that depending on the environmental obstacles they face, persons with an impairment or a disability may or may not experience a situation creating a handicap which is no longer seen as a stable status resulting from a disease to which the individual must adapt. By reviewing animal and clinical studies, current knowledge pertaining to leukaemia sequelae are integrated into the different levels defined by the model: organic impairment, disabilities, environmental obstacles, and handicap situation. Practical implications for research, policies, and individual treatments, and comparisons with existing models, are also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Robaey
- Centre de Recherche de l’Hôpital Sainte-Justine,
Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Patricia Dobkin
- Montreal General Hospital and McGill University, Montréal,
Québec, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Yves Théorêt
- Centre de Recherche de l’Hôpital Sainte-Justine,
Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Yap SM, MacEneaney P, Ryan C, O'Toole O. Alternating hemiparesis and orolingual apraxia as manifestations of methotrexate neurotoxicity in a paediatric case of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. BMJ Case Rep 2016; 2016:bcr-2016-214677. [PMID: 27113788 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-214677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A 15-year-old girl with a recent diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia was admitted to hospital with pancytopaenia after having received high-dose intrathecal methotrexate 1 day prior. During the next week she had intermittent episodes of alternating hemiparesis associated with speech arrest lasting minutes to hours at a time. The episodes were not associated with altered level of consciousness or headache. MRI of the brain showed features consistent with methotrexate encephalopathy. This report discusses the typical clinical and radiological features of methotrexate neurotoxicity in addition to differential diagnoses and the proposed pathophysiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Mei Yap
- Department of Neurology, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Peter MacEneaney
- Department of Radiology, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Clodagh Ryan
- Department of Haematology, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Orna O'Toole
- Department of Neurology, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
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Child with acute methotrexate related neurotoxicity: Can diffusion weighted MRI help?? THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrnm.2015.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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10
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Medication neurotoxicity in children. Pediatr Radiol 2011; 41:1455-64. [PMID: 21785849 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-011-2191-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2011] [Revised: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Medication neurotoxicity may have a variety of imaging manifestations in children. In this pictorial essay, we review the two most common brain injury patterns, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and acute toxic leukoencephalopathy (ATL). Proposed etiologies, salient features on neurological imaging, and methods for differentiating these entities and their implications will be discussed. Certain agents do not fall into these two broad patterns but instead characteristically involve central structures. We individually review several medications and their respective neurotoxic appearances including methotrexate, cyclosporine A, tacrolimus, metronidazole and vigabatrin. Diagnosis of medication neurotoxicity may be achieved by the combination of new-onset neurological deficits, recent initiation of a new therapy agent and distinctive findings on magnetic resonance imaging. Clinical and radiological improvement and/or resolution are frequently observed after the agent is discontinued.
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Landier W, Kinahan KE, Shaw S, Bhatia S. Screening for late effects in brain tumor survivors. Cancer Treat Res 2010; 150:389-409. [PMID: 19834683 DOI: 10.1007/b109924_26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Landier
- Department of Population Sciences, Center for Cancer Survivorship, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
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Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome. Transl Neurosci 2010. [DOI: 10.2478/v10134-010-0016-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractReversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS) is characterized by subacute onset of headache, decreased alertness, vomiting, seizures, visuoperceptual disturbances, together with bilateral white matter lesions in posterior brain regions on brain imaging. The most frequently associated conditions related to RPLS are arterial hypertension and the use of immunosuppressive or cytotoxic treatment. T2-, Fluid Attenuation Inversion Recovery (FLAIR), and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC)-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveal hyperintensities in parietooccipital white matter but grey matter and other regions including frontal and temporal lobes, brainstem, cerebellum, basal ganglia, or even spinal cord may also be involved. According to ADC findings, the underlying pathophysiologic mechanism is probably one of vasogenic (rather than cytotoxic) oedema. These MRI findings help in differentiating RPLS from ischaemic events and other diseases resembling RPLS. Failure of cerebral autoregulation, endothelial dysfunction, disrupted blood-brain barrier, vasospasm, and direct toxic drug effects may all play a role in the pathophysiology of RPLS. Treatment consists of discontinuation of the causal drug, treatment of high blood pressure, and antiepileptic therapy. Clinical recovery and regression of radiological abnormalities are typically seen after early treatment. However, delay in diagnosis and treatment can result in irreversible brain damage, often in association with complicating cerebral infarction or haemorrhage.
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Erbetta A, Salmaggi A, Sghirlanzoni A, Silvani A, Potepan P, Botturi A, Ciceri E, Bruzzone MG. Clinical and radiological features of brain neurotoxicity caused by antitumor and immunosuppressant treatments. Neurol Sci 2008; 29:131-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-008-0924-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2008] [Accepted: 04/28/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Muscal JA, Jones JY, Paulino AC, Bertuch AA, Su J, Woo SY, Mahoney DH, Chintagumpala M. Changes mimicking new leptomeningeal disease after intensity-modulated radiotherapy for medulloblastoma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2008; 73:214-21. [PMID: 18485616 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2008.03.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2007] [Revised: 03/13/2008] [Accepted: 03/17/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Acute and late changes in magnetic resonance imaging of the pediatric brain have been described after radiotherapy (RT). We report the post-RT neuroimaging changes in the posterior fossa after intensity-modulated RT (IMRT) in children with medulloblastoma and contrast them with those of leptomeningeal disease. METHODS AND MATERIALS We performed a retrospective review of 53 consecutive children with medulloblastoma who were treated with craniospinal RT followed by IMRT to the posterior fossa and chemotherapy between 1997 and 2006. RESULTS After IMRT to the posterior fossa, 8 (15%) of 53 patients developed increased fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery signal changes in the brainstem or cerebellum and patchy, multifocal, nodular contrast enhancement at a median of 6 months. The enhancement superficially resembled leptomeningeal disease. However, the enhancement resolved without intervention at a median of 6 months later. The accompanying fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery signal changes occasionally preceded the enhancement, were often parenchymal in location, and resolved or persisted to a lesser degree. All 8 patients with transient magnetic resonance imaging changes in the posterior fossa were alive at last follow-up. In contrast, leptomeningeal disease occurred in 8 (15%) of our 53 patients at a median of 19.5 months after IMRT completion. Of these 8 patients, 7 demonstrated initial nodular enhancement outside the conformal field, and 7 patients died. CONCLUSION Magnetic resonance imaging changes can occur in the posterior fossa of children treated with IMRT for medulloblastoma. In our experience, these transient changes occur at a characteristic time and location after RT, allowing them to be distinguished from leptomeningeal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi A Muscal
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Kellie SJ, Chaku J, Lockwood LR, O'Regan P, Waters KD, Wong CKF. Late magnetic resonance imaging features of leukoencephalopathy in children with central nervous system tumours following high-dose methotrexate and neuraxis radiation therapy. Eur J Cancer 2005; 41:1588-96. [PMID: 16026694 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2005.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2004] [Revised: 01/06/2005] [Accepted: 02/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
High-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) is used increasingly to treat children with central nervous system (CNS) tumours. Although the neuro-imaging features of leukoencephalopathy associated with systemic or intrathecal methotrexate administered after cranial radiation have been well described, the extent to which the sequencing of HDMTX prior to cranial radiation in infants and children predisposes to late neuroradiological features of leukoencephalopathy is unknown. This report describes the National Cancer Institute (NCI) toxicity grade of leukoencephalopathy based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in all patients who survived 4 or more years after treatment on an earlier phase II study. These patients, with newly diagnosed CNS embryonal tumours, were in the age range 3.5-14.2 years (median 6.9 years) at diagnosis, and received four courses of pre-irradiation combination chemotherapy, including HDMTX 8 g/m(2). Following completion of the 'up-front' phase II study, all patients received conventionally fractionated whole brain doses of 36-50.4 Gy. The radiation dose and treatment volumes were determined individually according to the primary tumour location and results of extent of disease evaluations. The most recent MRI brain scans, obtained 4.0-10.5 years (median 6.5 years) after radiation therapy and comprising a minimum of T1, T1 following gadolinium and T2 sequences, were reviewed centrally to assess the neuroradiological grade of leukoencephalopathy, based on the NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, v3.0. Grade I changes (mild increase in subarachnoid space, and/or mild ventriculomegaly, and/or small/focal T2 hyperintensities) were evident in 8 of the 12 patients and grade II changes (moderate increase in subarachnoid space and/or moderate ventriculomegaly, and/or focal T2 hyperintensities extending to the centrum ovale) were found in the remaining 4. In conclusion, treatment with multiple courses of HDMTX prior to 36-50.4 Gy cranial radiation did not result in moderate to severe MRI features of leukoencephalopathy. Future studies in paediatric neuro-oncology patients, involving HDMTX combined with prospective neuropsychological evaluations appear justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stewart J Kellie
- Discipline of Paediatrics, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Küker W, Bader P, Herrlinger U, Heckl S, Nägele T. Transient encephalopathy after intrathekal methotrexate chemotherapy: diffusion-weighted MRI. J Neurooncol 2005; 73:47-9. [PMID: 15933817 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-004-2929-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is an indispensable antimetabolite for the treatment of oncological and immunological disorders in all age groups. Chronic leukoencephalopathy is a well know side effect of MTX, especially in conjunction with intrathecal administration and whole brain radio therapy. However, acute neurotoxicity with confusion, disorientation, seizures and focal deficits has also been reported. Because acute neurological symptoms in patients under chemotherapy for neoplastic disorders may have many reasons, MR-imaging is usually necessary to identify the underlying pathology. Apart from conventional sequences, diffusion-weighted imaging (DW-MRI) is frequently performed. We report on clinical and imaging findings of reversibly restricted diffusion in a patient with transient encephalopathy after intrathecal administration of MTX for recurrent acute lymphatic leukaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Küker
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Tübingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Street. 3, Tübingen, Germany, D-72076.
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Chu WCW, Chik KW, Chan YL, Yeung DKW, Roebuck DJ, Howard RG, Li CK, Metreweli C. White Matter and Cerebral Metabolite Changes in Children Undergoing Treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Longitudinal Study with MR Imaging and1H MR Spectroscopy. Radiology 2003; 229:659-69. [PMID: 14576448 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2293021550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the development of white matter and cerebral metabolite changes during and after treatment in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-three children (10 boys, mean age of 6.3 years; 13 girls, mean age of 6.6 years) with acute lymphoblastic leukemia were examined prospectively with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR spectroscopy at 0, 8, and 20 weeks and 1, 2, and 3 years after diagnosis. White matter changes were diagnosed on the basis of hyperintense abnormalities on T2-weighted MR images. Single-voxel hydrogen 1 MR spectroscopy results from the right frontoparietal region of 21 children who received intravenous high-dose methotrexate were analyzed for cerebral metabolite changes. Multilevel models were used to assess the change in metabolites from baseline levels at subsequent follow-up. RESULTS At 20 weeks, MR spectroscopy showed a significant reduction (P <.05) of mean N-acetylaspartate to choline ratio and increase in mean choline to creatine ratio (P <.05) in the children given high-dose methotrexate. This decline in N-acetylaspartate to choline ratio subsequently reversed and increased, possibly because of normal age-related brain maturation. Seventeen of 21 (81%) children showed metabolite changes at MR spectroscopy, while five of 22 (23%) showed white matter changes at MR imaging at 20 weeks. One more child developed white matter changes at 32 weeks. The associated changes resolved or reduced with time. CONCLUSION MR spectroscopy demonstrated metabolite changes in the brain after high-dose methotrexate treatment in the absence of structural white matter abnormalities at MR imaging. MR spectroscopy might thus be a more sensitive method of monitoring the effects of high-dose methotrexate in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie C W Chu
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Organ Imaging, Medical Physics Div, Chinese Univ of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hosp, 30-32 Ngan Shing St, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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18
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Oka M, Terae S, Kobayashi R, Sawamura Y, Kudoh K, Tha KK, Yoshida M, Kaneda M, Suzuki Y, Miyasaka K. MRI in methotrexate-related leukoencephalopathy: Disseminated necrotising leukoencephalopathy in comparison with mild leukoencephalopathy. Neuroradiology 2003; 45:493-7. [PMID: 12761601 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-003-0983-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2003] [Accepted: 02/24/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
We report two fatal cases of methotrexate (MTX)-induced disseminated necrotising leukoencephalopathy (DNL) in which MRI was repeated from the onset. Initial T2-weighted images showed multiple areas of high signal, mainly in deep cerebral white matter, which on follow-up, spread and coalesced to involve the entire white matter. Small irregular low-signal foci on T2-weighted images were seen within the high-signal lesions. Multiple areas of contrast enhancement corresponded to these low-signal foci. The condition of both patients deteriorated and they died. We compared their MRI findings with those of seven patients with mild MTX-related leukoencephalopathy, six of whom were asymptomatic; one had transient neurological symptoms. They showed no contrast enhancement, but rather mild-to-moderate diffuse high signal in deep white matter, which later disappeared. These findings suggest that multiple low-signal foci on T2-weighted images with contrast enhancement may be characteristic of DNL, and that contrast-enhanced imaging is useful to differentiate this condition from mild leukoencephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Oka
- Department of Radiology, Hokkaido Graduate University School of Medicine, 060-8638, Sapporo, Japan.
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19
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20
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Iuvone L, Mariotti P, Colosimo C, Guzzetta F, Ruggiero A, Riccardi R. Long-term cognitive outcome, brain computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging in children cured for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Cancer 2002; 95:2562-70. [PMID: 12467071 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.10999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevention of meningeal recurrence achieved by intrathecal methotrexate (MTX) and systemic chemotherapy is part of standard acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment. Cranial irradiation has been a routine part of past protocol treatment but is currently reserved only for select subsets of patients. Central nervous system (CNS) prophylaxis may cause brain abnormalities such as intracerebral calcifications, cerebral atrophy, and white matter alterations. In addition, long-term neuropsychologic sequelae following CNS prophylaxis have been investigated marginally in children cured for ALL. METHODS To explore possible correlations between neuroimaging findings and neuropsychologic outcome, we used detailed cognitive tests to evaluate 21 children with ALL who received cranial irradiation (range, 18-24 Gy) plus intrathecal MTX as CNS prophylaxis. All children were followed prospectively once a year by cerebral computed tomographic scan and magnetic resonance imaging. All patients had continuous complete disease remission for at least 4 years and cognitive tests were performed after neuroradiologic examinations. RESULTS White matter abnormalities were associated with poor performance only in a task exploring visual motor integration in about 50% of patients. Intracerebral calcifications correlate with the number of intrathecal MTX doses and with low scores in total intellectual quotient, performance intellectual quotient, and significant impairment in attention and visual motor integration tests. Girls are more vulnerable to the effects of CNS prophylaxis, whereas age at treatment and radiotherapy dose are not relevant to neuropsychologic outcome. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate the need for careful follow-up of children's cognitive abilities because global intellectual measures often fail to detect specific disorders that may cause learning difficulties. Moreover, as the clinical implications of neuroimaging findings are often limited, periodic extensive evaluation by specific neurocognitive tests of mental abilities is recommended to detect early signs of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Iuvone
- Department of Pediatric Neuropsychiatry, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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21
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Chan YL, Roebuck DJ, Yuen MP, Yeung KW, Lau KY, Li CK, Chik KW. Long-term cerebral metabolite changes on proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients cured of acute lymphoblastic leukemia with previous intrathecal methotrexate and cranial irradiation prophylaxis. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2001; 50:759-63. [PMID: 11395245 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(01)01513-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the long-term brain metabolite changes on (1)H-MRS in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients who had intrathecal methotrexate (ITMTX) and cranial irradiation (CRT) for central nervous system (CNS) prophylaxis against CNS relapse. METHODS AND MATERIALS Thirty-seven ALL patients (12 females, 25 males) with history of ITMTX and CRT for CNS prophylaxis were studied. Age ranges at the time of diagnosis and at magnetic resonance examination were 0.8-13 years and 12-27 years, respectively. The interval since diagnosis was 5.6-19 years. T2-weighted and gradient-recalled echo (GRE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS) were performed to assess brain injury. RESULTS On MRI, 3 leukoencephalopathy (LEP) and 1 infarct were detected. Twenty-two patients had evidence of hemosiderin. On (1)H-MRS no statistically significant difference in choline (Cho)/creatine (Cr) and N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/Cr was associated with LEP. A lower Cho/Cr (p = 0.006) and NAA/Cr (p = 0.078) was observed in brains with hemosiderin. Linear-regression analysis showed no statistically significant relationship between NAA/Cr or Cho/Cr with age at diagnosis, but there was a statistically significant decreasing trend of NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr with the interval since diagnosis. CONCLUSION Long-term brain injury in ALL survivors after CNS prophylaxis with ITMTX and CRT was reflected by decreasing NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr with the interval since diagnosis. The lower Cho/Cr associated with hemosiderin but not LEP suggested a different pathophysiology for these brain lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y L Chan
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Organ Imaging, Prince of Wales Hospital, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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22
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Hara H, Igarashi A, Yano Y, Yashiro T, Ueno E, Aiyoshi Y. Interventricular methotrexate therapy for carcinomatous meningitis due to breast cancer: a case with leukoencephalopathy. Breast Cancer 2001; 7:247-51. [PMID: 11029806 DOI: 10.1007/bf02967468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A 46-year-old woman presented with paraplegia and severe lumbago. She had had a radical mastectomy for left breast cancer 10 years earlier, and 6 months prior to presentation she completed CMF chemotherapy for treatment of retroperitoneal metastasis. CT and MRI to identify potential causes of the paraplegia and lumbago showed leptomeningeal carcinomatosis due to dissemination from invasive recurrence of the retroperitoneal tumor. An Ommaya reservoir was inserted, and infusion of intrathecal methotrexate (MTX; 5 mg twice weekly) began. Her clinical symptoms improved after receiving 53 mg MTX. However, after receiving 83 mg MTX, the patient became dizzy from leukoencephalopathy. Although administration of prednisolone mostly resolved her symptom, the patient died 9 months after the diagnosis of carcinomatous meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hara
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
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Anderson VA, Godber T, Smibert E, Weiskop S, Ekert H. Cognitive and academic outcome following cranial irradiation and chemotherapy in children: a longitudinal study. Br J Cancer 2000; 82:255-62. [PMID: 10646874 PMCID: PMC2363266 DOI: 10.1054/bjoc.1999.0912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cranial irradiation therapy (CRT) and chemotherapy are associated with neurobehavioural deficits. Many studies have investigated late effects of these treatments, but few have evaluated changes in abilities over time. This study employed a longitudinal design to map abilities following these treatments. Three groups of children were studied: Group 1 (n = 35): children treated with CRT (18 Gy) + chemotherapy, aged 5 years or less at time of diagnosis; Group 2 (n = 19): children treated with chemotherapy alone, aged 5 years or less at time of diagnosis; Group 3 (n = 35): healthy children. All children were aged 7-13 years at time of initial assessment, with no pre-diagnosis history of neurologic, developmental, or psychiatric disorder. Intellectual and educational abilities were evaluated twice: T1, not less than 2 years post-treatment, and T2, 3 years later. Group 1 achieved poorest results at T1, with comparison groups performing similarly. At T2 group differences were maintained. For verbal skills differences remained stable. Group 1 exhibited deterioration on non-verbal and processing tasks, while comparison groups showed improved abilities. Group 1 exhibited increases in literacy skills, with educational intervention predicting progress. Results suggest cumulative deficits in non-verbal and information processing skills for children treated with CRT + chemotherapy, with other deficits remaining relatively stable over time. Improved literacy skills suggest that gains can occur with remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A Anderson
- Dept. Psychology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Harila-Saari AH, P��kk� EL, Vainionp�� LK, Pyhtinen J, Lanning BM. A longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging study of the brain in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Cancer 1998. [DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0142(19981215)83:12<2608::aid-cncr28>3.0.co;2-l] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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25
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Anderson V, Godber T, Smibert E, Ekert H. Neurobehavioural sequelae following cranial irradiation and chemotherapy in children: an analysis of risk factors. PEDIATRIC REHABILITATION 1997; 1:63-76. [PMID: 9689241 DOI: 10.3109/17518429709025849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurobehavioural deficits are commonly reported following treatment for childhood cancers. This study examined the impact of cranial irradiation (CRT) and chemotherapy in children, aiming to identify factors detrimental to long-term outcome. The study compared survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), treated with CRT and chemotherapy (CRT group: n = 100), survivors of cancers treated with chemotherapy only (n = 50) and healthy controls (n = 100) for intelligence, academic achievement, information processing, learning, and executive function. CRT and chemotherapy in combination were associated with reduced intelligence, educational skill, immediate memory, processing speed, and executive function. Children treated with chemotherapy alone exhibited subtle information processing deficits. Within the CRT group, younger age at treatment was predictive of deficits in non-verbal ability, educational skills and executive functions. High dose CRT was associated with poorer information processing and lower arithmetic ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Anderson
- Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Bleyer WA. Leukoencephalopathy detectable by magnetic resonance imaging: much ado about nothing? Regarding Matsumoto et al. IJROBP 32:913-918; 1995. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 1995; 32:1251-2; discussion 1263. [PMID: 7607949 DOI: 10.1016/0360-3016(95)00236-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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27
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Matsumoto K. A more objective and easier method to evaluate treatment-related brain injury—In response to W. A. Bleyer, IJROBP 32:1251–1252; 1995. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 1995. [DOI: 10.1016/0360-3016(95)98056-e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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