A RECENTLY published systematic review has shed light on chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) and its association with changes in brain connectivity and function. The study analysed data from 63 studies involving 3,642 patients with non-central nervous system cancers, offering new information for healthcare professionals managing oncology patients.
The review highlighted that CRCI, often described as “chemo brain,” includes deficits in memory, processing speed, and attention. Notably, 64% of studies reported worsened learning and memory, while 70% identified significant impairments in attention and working memory following chemotherapy. These cognitive challenges were linked to alterations in critical neural networks, including the default mode, central executive, and dorsal attention networks.
The analysis drew from neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging. These methods revealed structural and functional connectivity changes post-chemotherapy. However, only 72% of studies found significant correlations between these neural alterations and cognitive impairments, and high-quality studies often showed no such link.
Despite these findings, the review underscores inconsistencies in the evidence. With 45% of high-evidence studies failing to demonstrate clear connections between connectivity changes and cognitive deficits, the need for standardized, robust research is evident.
For clinicians, this study emphasizes the importance of monitoring cognitive health in patients undergoing systemic chemotherapy. It also highlights the necessity of developing targeted interventions to mitigate potential cognitive effects, improving both treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Reference: Leskinen S et al. Chemotherapy-Related Cognitive Impairment and Changes in Neural Network Dynamics. Neurology. 2025;10(2).
Anaya Malik | AMJ
