Persistent Cognitive Dysfunction Secondary to Cerebellar Injury in Patients Treated for Posterior Fossa Tumors in Childhood

Abstract

Persistent cognitive dysfunction was detected in patients treated for posterior fossa medulloblastoma and cerebellar astrocytoma. The astrocytoma group was treated with surgery alone, indicating that a cerebellar lesion can result in cognitive dysfunction. Thus, this study gives support to the existence of the cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome. Follow-up of all patients treated for posterior fossa tumor in childhood should include an extensive neuropsychological testing at regular intervals. This may be of benefit for school planning and later work planning.