Presentation Description:
Long-term survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia are at risk for development of chronic health problems, including neurocognitive impairment. Cranial radiation therapy has long been recognized as a risk factor for these neurocognitive problems, and has been removed from many contemporary therapeutic protocols, being replaced by intensified chemotherapy doses. This presentation reported recent findings linking chemotherapy to neurocognitive impairment and brain integrity. The developmental course of neurocognitive function was reviewed in a longitudinal study and risk factors discussed. Implications for follow-up and intervention were also reviewed.

Speaker:

Kevin Krull, PhD
Faculty Member
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis