Combined cognitive treatment in patients with cancer related cognitive dysfunction – preliminary data from a pilot study

Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD) is found in up to 60% of patients following tumor therapy and often significantly impairs quality of life. The data of oncological patients with CRCD who took part in combined cognitive training as part of inpatient oncological rehabilitation were analyzed retrospectively. The patients received web-based cognitive training in combination with a behavioral therapy intervention. Thirty-eight patients were included in the study. In the subjective perception of the patients, there was a significant improvement in cognitive function as a result of the combined cognitive therapy. There were also significant improvements in cognitive screening, particularly in the parameters alertness and selective attention/response control. In addition, a significant correlation was found between subjective perception and alertness as well as between subjective perception and working memory at the end of therapy. Combined cognitive therapy could improve both subjectively perceived and objectively measured cognitive function in the context of inpatient oncological rehabilitation. A randomized study is necessary and planned.