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Assessing Discrepancies in Neurocognitive and Patient-Reported Measures of Brain Tumor Survivors

Deborah "Hutch" Allen

Barbara W. Carlson

John R. Carlson

Renee H. Raynor

Virginia J. Neelon

primary brain tumor, adult patients with cancer, neurocognitive performance, survivors
ONF 2020, 47(1), E1-E12. DOI: 10.1188/20.ONF.E1-E12

Objectives: To examine the association between performance-based neurocognitive and patient-reported cognitive function tests and identify characteristics that may explain observed discrepancies as a means to advance intervention development.

Sample & Setting: 40 adults diagnosed with a primary brain tumor (PBT) (high-grade, n = 35) were recruited from two academic neuro-oncology clinics in North Carolina.

Methods & Variables: Eligibility included a Mini-Mental State Examination score of 24 or greater, having completed cancer treatment, and having tumor stability. Participants completed performance-based neurocognitive and patient-reported cognitive function, demographic, and symptom assessment tests at one time point.

Results: Neurocognitive impairments included executive control, memory, and attention. Age, time since diagnosis, and tumor- or treatment-specific variables were not associated with neurocognitive or patient-reported cognitive function. Those reporting worse cognitive impairment tended also to report greater severity of PBT-specific and depressive symptoms.

Implications for Nursing: Patient-reported cognitive concerns warrant additional assessment for potential interventions to maintain function.

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