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Changes in Executive Function over time in Pediatric Cancer Survivors
  • Rachel Peterson,
  • Lisa Jacobson
Rachel Peterson
Kennedy Krieger Institute

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Lisa Jacobson
Kennedy Krieger Institute
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Abstract

Objective. Pediatric oncology survivors are at risk for executive function (EF) and working memory (WM) deficits, which can be measured via performance-based measures or rating scales. Previous studies have shown these measurement methods to be weakly correlated. This study aimed to describe parent rated EF and performance-based working memory (PBWM) in pediatric cancer survivors; examine change in EF and PBWM across time; and investigate the relationship between parent rated WM and PBWM. Method. The sample included 59 patients (50 brain tumor, 9 Leukemia) diagnosed in childhood (Mage=6.92 years; SD=4.12) seen twice for clinical neuropsychological evaluation. PBWM was examined via the auditory working memory scale from a Wechsler intelligence measure or Differential Ability Scales-II. Parents completed the BRIEF/2 as a measure of global EF (GEC), metacognitive skills (MI/CRI), and behavioral regulation (BRI). Results. MI/CRI and GEC at Time 1 were significantly above the mean (p<.01), while PBWM did not differ from the normative mean. GEC, MI/CRI, and BRI were significantly higher than the normative mean at Time 2 (p<.05). PBWM was both clinically and statistically elevated (p<.001). There was a significant change across time in GEC, MI/CRI, and PBWM (p<.05), but not BRI. PBWM was only weakly correlated with the BRIEF WM subscale at Time 1 and Time 2 (all p>.05). Conclusions. Multiple measures of EF should be considered when providing diagnoses and recommendations for pediatric cancer survivors. Furthermore, given declines across time, findings document need for continued monitoring and re-assessment of pediatric survivors as they get further out from treatment.