Factors influencing neurocognitive function in patients with neuroepithelial tumors

Though cognitive function is proven to be an independent predictor of survival in patients with intrinsic brain tumors, cognitive functions are still rarely considered. Aim of this study was to assess neurocognitive function and to identify risk factors for neurocognitive deficits. 103 patients with primary neuroepithelial tumors who received tumor resections or biopsies were included in this prospective study. The following data was acquired: mini-mental state examination, preoperative tumor volume, WHO grade, tumor entity and location, and the Karnofsky performance status scale. Furthermore, patients participated in extensive neuropsychological testing of attentional, memory and executive functions. General factors like age, clinical status, WHO grade, tumor volume and tumor location correlated with patients’ neurocognitive functions. Affection of the parietal lobe resulted in significant impairment of attention and memory functions. Frontal lobe involvement significantly affected patients’ abilities in planning complex actions and novel problem solving. Patients with temporal lesions were more likely to have impaired memory and executive functions. Comparing results among neuroepithelial tumor patients enables the identification of risk factors for cognitive impairment. General parameters such as age, KPS score, tumor size, and WHO grade are apart from the respective tumor location of high importance for neurocognitive function.