In a nutshell
This study investigated the effects of chemotherapy on cancer-related cognitive impairment in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma. The main finding was that patients with Hodgkin lymphoma who have been treated with chemotherapy experienced more cognitive decline than individuals without.
Some background
Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Many patients who undergo chemotherapy experience cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI). This is a decline in a patient’s cognitive abilities, including memory and thinking skills. It is important to investigate the development of CRCI in patients with HL.
Methods & findings
This study included 51 patients who were in remission for six months- five years after treatment for HL. This treatment included chemotherapy, with some patients also getting radiation therapy. The average age of participants was 28. Participants monitored the development of any fatigue, depression or anxiety. Cognitive function was also evaluated. These results were compared to the results of the same evaluations in fourteen participants without HL.
Participants with HL experienced more cognitive decline and fatigue than participants without. Furthermore, cognitive function was impaired in 30% of participants with HL.
The bottom line
This study suggested that patients with HL who undergo chemotherapy experience more cognitive impairment than individuals without HL.
The fine print
This study only evaluated a small population of patients with HL. Therefore the results may not be representative of a larger population of patients with HL.
What’s next?
If you have questions about the management of Hodgkin lymphoma, please ask your doctor.
Published By :
British Journal of Haematology
Date :
Jul 05, 2018
