Cancer or Cancer Treatment and Neuropsychological Testing
Cancer and its treatments can significantly impact cognitive function, often referred to as "chemobrain" or cancer-related cognitive impairment. Factors contributing to these cognitive changes include the cancer itself, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal treatments, and the psychological stress associated with a cancer diagnosis. Our practice provides neuropsychological assessment to identify specific cognitive deficits, the impact of psychological issues like depression or anxiety, or functioning and monitor changes over time in cancer survivors to enhance their self-awareness and quality of life.
How Cancer or Cancer Treatment Affects Cognitive Functioning:
- Difficulty with attention/concentration, memory, processing speed, etc.
- Mental fatigue and cognitive fogginess
- Trouble with planning, organization, task switching (sometimes interpreted as multitasking), and self-regulation (executive functioning)
- Emotional changes, including depression or mood swings
What Our Cancer or Cancer Treatment Testing May Include:
- Memory and Learning: Tests to measure recall of information and ability to learn new material
- Attention and Concentration: Evaluations to assess focus and the ability to sustain mental effort
- Processing Speed: Timed tests to measure how quickly you can process information
- Executive Functioning: Tests that assess planning, reasoning, task switching (sometimes interpreted as multitasking), and problem-solving skills
- Emotional and Psychological Screening: Assessments to understand the emotional effects of MS, including mood and coping abilities