Research advance of the mechanism of cancer⁃related cognitive impairment

Abstract

Advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in cancer have significantly increased the survival of cancer patients, which causes cancer itself and its treatment related sequelae and side effects appearing in their later life. Patients with cancer before, during and even many years after completion of therapies can exhibit cognitive impairment, negatively affecting cancer survivors' quality of life and functional independence. Internationally, patients with cancer complaining cognitive symptoms due to the disease itself and/or its therapy are called cancer⁃related cognitive impairment (CRCI). However, many aspects of the association between cancer and cognitive impairment remain uncertain. The definitive connection between systemic cancer and central nervous system is yet to be established. Therefore, this review summarizes the current evidence on potential pathophysiology in these patients with CRCI, emphasizing knowledge gaps and the potential strategies to address them.

Keywords

• neoplasms
• cognition disorders
• review