Psychological Outcome in Children Treated for Brain Tumor

Abstract

The cognitive and psychosocial functions of 16 children with brain tumor, treated with whole-brain or local radiotherapy, were studied. Fifteen nonirradiated children with acute lymphatic leukemia (ALL) served as a comparison group. Mean Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised Full Scale IQscore and mean Visual-Motor Integration Test (Beery VMI) standard score were significantly decreased in the brain tumor group. The Achenbach checklists were filled in by mothers (Child Behavior Checklist, CBCL) and teachers (Teacher's Report Form). Overall adjustment was rated lower in the children with brain tumor. Although most of the children in the ALL group were well adapted, one third of them had low CBCL Social Competence scores relative to nonclinical norms. On a visual analog scale a significantly decreased tempo was assessed by mothers and teachers in the children with brain tumor and low speed and hypoactivity seemed to limit the majority of these children in school and daily life activities.

Key Words:

• ALL
• brain tumor
• children
• hypoactivity
• psychomotor speed