Study of Brain Radiation Effects on Thinking and Quality of Life in Adults with Blood Cancers

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to understand how whole brain radiation therapy WBRT affects memory and thinking skills in patients with blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. The study focuses on patients treated for hematologic malignancies affecting the brain and seeks to track cognitive changes over time. It also explores quality of life, brain imaging changes, and the impact of medications like Memantine on cognitive function. Participants will undergo neurocognitive testing and complete questionnaires lasting 8 to 10 minutes at several time points before starting WBRT, then at 2, 6, and 12 months after treatment, followed by annual check-ins for up to 5 years. Standard brain MRIs are also performed at these intervals to observe any changes. The study uses standard-of-care assessments and imaging without additional experimental treatments. During the study, participants will complete cognitive tests, quality-of-life questionnaires, and have brain MRIs to monitor effects over time. Researchers will assess memory and thinking abilities, quality of life, MRI changes, and the role of medications used for cognitive support. The total follow-up period can last up to 5 years, allowing detailed long-term monitoring after WBRT for blood cancers.

Neurocognitive Outcomes After Whole Brain Radiation Therapy for Hematologic Malignancies