[Probable effect of cerebral irradiation on intellectual efficiency].
Thirty adult patients treated for brain tumors by radiation therapy were tested by the Weschler intelligence scale (WAIS). All patients were in complete clinical and scanographic remission. Intellectual quotient (IQ) and deterioration coefficient were evaluated. This coefficient was determined by separate study of intellectual faculties according to their relationship to external aggressions. During the first six months, IQ and deterioration coefficient are similar to those observed in the normal population. From 7 to 30 months, there is a significant diminution of the intellectual faculties (p = 0,01) noted on the deterioration coefficient but without global IQ alteration. After 30 months appears a decrease in the global IQ, testifying of further alteration of intellectual faculties. Radiation therapy seems to be the predominant factor in the induction of this deterioration and the importance of the irradiation volume appears to be essential. On the other hand, neurosurgery, chemotherapy and emotional status seem to be less important. Intellectual deterioration makes professional reinsertion difficult but not impossible. Further studies are necessary to define what place take other factors like age, vascular status, tumor site, type and number of chemotherapy cycles, acute radiation tolerance, in the induction of this deterioration.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000628:therapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007360:Intelligence / Q000528:radiation effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational; D013997:Time Factors; D014888:Wechsler Scales
Incidence probable de l'irradiation cérébrale sur l'efficience intellectuelle.