Impact of Treatments to Improve Cognitive Function and Quality of Life on Cancer Patients with Carcinoma of the Testes

Česká verze

Authors: L. Vasiľková
Authors place of work: Psychologická ambulancia, Poliklinika, Národný onkologický ústav, Bratislava, Slovenská republika
Published in the journal: Klin Onkol 2016; 29(4): 267-273
Category: Přehled
doi: https://doi.org/10.14735/amko2016267

Summary

Background:
Testicular cancer is one of the most common and most treatable cancers in men aged 15–49 years. The high survival rates mean that it is essential to maintain quality of life and minimize adverse effects associated with treatment. Both malignant tumors and the modalities used to treatment them can have adverse effects from both a psychosocial and a neurocognitive function perspective. Recently, attention has focused on the negative impact of the disease and its treatment on the brain and on cognitive function, which can result in a form of neurocognitive dysfunction known as „chemo brain“ or „chemo fog“. Both cancer itself and the modalities used to treat it are associated with neurotoxicity and cognitive deficit, which are manifest in key areas of cognitive function. These problems may adversely affect both patients undergoing treatment and those in remission, with a consequent reduction in quality of life. Because many patients survive testicular cancer, it is important to understand the characteristics, range, and time course of disease symptoms, treatment, and side effects, all of which can lead to long-term physical, psychological, and social problems. Testicular cancer has a high potential for cure; therefore, patients suffer not only short-term but also long-term side effects associated with therapy.

Aims:
This article aims to offer a complete and concise overview of cognitive dysfunction and quality of life for patients with testicular cancer.

Conclusion:
It would be beneficial if research into testicular cancer also focused on the relationships between psychosocial factors, psychological disorders, and cognitive function.

Key words:
cognitive functions – quality of life – sexuality – body image

The author declares she has no potential conflicts of interest concerning drugs, products, or services used in the study.

The Editorial Board declares that the manuscript met the ICMJE recommendation for biomedical papers.

Submitted:
1. 12. 2015

Accepted:
20. 3. 2016

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