Neurocognitive outcomes and functional independence in adult survivors of childhood medulloblastoma diagnosed over 3 decades

Treatment of childhood medulloblastoma has evolved to reduce neurotoxicity while improving survival. However, the impact of evolving therapies on late neurocognitive outcomes and adult functional independence remains unknown.

Adult survivors of childhood medulloblastoma (n = 505; median [minimum–maximum] age, 29 [18–46] years) and sibling controls (n = 727; 32 [18–58] years) from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study completed surveys assessing neurocognitive problems and chronic health conditions (CHCs). Treatment exposures were categorized as historical (craniospinal irradiation [CSI] ≥ 30 Gy, no chemotherapy), standard-risk (CSI > 0 to <30 Gy + chemotherapy) and high-risk (CSI ≥ 30 Gy + chemotherapy) therapy. Latent class analysis identified patterns of functional independence using employment, independent living, assistance with routine/personal care needs, driver’s license, and marital/partner status. Multivariable models estimated the risk of neurocognitive impairment in survivors versus siblings and by treatment exposure group, and associations between neurocognitive impairment, CHCs, and functional independence.

Survivors in each treatment exposure group had a 4- to 5-fold elevated risk of impaired memory and task efficiency compared to siblings. Contemporary risk-based therapies did not confer lower risk compared to historical therapy. Survivors treated in the 1990s had a higher risk of memory impairment (relative risk [RR] 2.24, 95% confidence interval 1.39–3.60) compared to survivors treated in the 1970s. Sensorimotor, hearing problems, and seizures were associated with 33–34%, 25–26%, and 21–42% elevated risk of task efficiency and memory impairment, respectively. Treatment-related CHCs and neurocognitive impairment were associated with nonindependence.

Despite treatment changes, long-term survivors of childhood medulloblastoma remain at risk for neurocognitive impairment, which was associated with CHCs. Neurocognitive surveillance after contemporary regimens is imperative.