Chemobrain

Patients with neoplastic disease often experience difficulties in cognitive functioning, a condition known as "chemobrain." However, "chemobrain" is a misnomer as it is not only caused by chemotherapy. The prevalence of chemobrain varies between 17% and 75%, depending on studies and co-factors. Unfortunately, chemobrain is often not recognized by physicians. Increased awareness of the "chemobrain" concept has been shown to increase reporting of cognitive symptoms. Chemobrain essentially denotes difficulties in memory, concentration, and processing speed. It contributes to fatigue and increased distress, which can potentially lead to anxiety, depression, and, ultimately, loss of overall ability to function. It is important to recognize chemobrain in order to treat the causal factors that are reversible or modifiable. Management requires a multidisciplinary approach. For long-term cancer survivors with persistent chemobrain, pharmacological and behavioral interventions may help restore some of the lost functions and improve overall quality of life.