Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction

Background Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD) represents an increasing and relevant secondary disorder in tumor patients. This is due to the fact that more patients become long-term survivors and that in the past, especially since the drug treatment options and thus the prognoses have significantly improved. Results The genesis of CRCD is multifactorial and cannot be attributed exclusively to drug therapy or psychological constellation, although overlap with psychogenic distress and fatigue syndrome is not uncommon. A standardized screening instrument for daily practice does not currently exist. The visual analog scale (VAS) and the FEDA questionnaire (Questionnaire of Subjectively Experienced Deficits of Attention) can be used as the simplest instruments. Categorization of CRCD for prognosis assessment can be done using the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE). The long-term prognosis of CRCD is good and there is usually a significant improvement of symptoms after several weeks to months. The most promising therapeutic approach is web- or computer-based cognitive training with validated programs. In contrast, pharmaceutical-based approaches generally do not play a role due to insufficient data and are only very rarely used and desired by patients. Conclusion All patients should be informed about the possible occurrence of CRCD and the predominantly good prognosis. Systematic screening during tumor follow-up and oncologic rehabilitation should be implemented. In the presence of CRCD, evidence-based therapeutic approaches should be used.