Pilot study of the prospective identification of changes in cognitive function during chemotherapy treatment for advanced ovarian cancer.
Change in cognitive function is increasingly being recognized as an adverse outcome related to chemotherapy treatment. These changes need not be severe to impact patient functional ability and quality of life. The primary goal of this study was to determine if there is evidence of changes in the cognitive function domains of attention, processing speed, and response time among women with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer who receive chemotherapy. Eligible patients were women diagnosed with stage III-IV epithelial ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer who had not yet received chemotherapy but who were prescribed a minimum of six cycles (courses) of chemotherapy treatment. Cognitive function was assessed by a computerized, Web-based assessment (attention, processing speed, and reaction time) and by patient self-report. Cognitive function was assessed at three time points: prior to the first course (baseline), course three, and course six. Medical records were reviewed to abstract information on chemotherapy treatment, concomitant medications, and blood test results (e.g., hemoglobin, CA-125). Of the 27 eligible participants, 92% and 86% demonstrated cognitive impairments from baseline to course three and from baseline to course six of chemotherapy, respectively. Impairment was detected in two or more cognitive domains among 48% (12 of 25) and 41% (9 of 22) of participants at course three and course six of chemotherapy, respectively. This study shows evidence of decline in cognitive function among women being treated for ovarian cancer. There is a need for additional, prospective research to better understand the impact of chemotherapy on cognitive function among ovarian cancer patients so that effective preventive and treatment strategies can be developed.
University of Arizona, Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, USA. lmhess@iupui.edu
Lisa M
LM
Hess
Setsuko K
SK
Chambers
Kenneth
K
Hatch
Alton
A
Hallum
Mike F
MF
Janicek
Joseph
J
Buscema
Matthew
M
Borst
Cynthia
C
Johnson
Lisa
L
Slayton
Yuda
Y
Chongpison
David S
DS
Alberts
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003071:Cognition / Q000187:drug effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010051:Ovarian Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents