Certain treatments for childhood cancer are known to cause learning problems in survivors, particularly when central nervous system (CNS)-directed therapies are used (e.g. cranial radiation; high-dose methotrexate or cytarabine; or intrathecal chemotherapy).
The goal of treatment for childhood cancers today is to minimize these adverse "late effects", while ensuring long-term survival.
Cognitive problems that have been associated with cancer and its treatments in children include deficits in attention, working memory, processing speed, mental flexibility, persistence, verbal fluency, memory, motor skills, academic achievement and social function.
[2] These deficits have been shown to occur irrespective of age, socioeconomic status, months since onset or cessation of treatment, anxiety, and dosage schedule.
[4] Some clinicians and research groups in neuropsychology are developing programs to help treat the cognitive problems associated with childhood cancer.