Unlike chemobrain, beamobrain, or impairment after radiation therapy, is far less well understood including how much it affects patients or how long those effects will last. Few studies examine neurocognitive loss in adults. The typical way to evaluate neurocognitive function is for patients to be formally enrolled in studies where extensive testing is used. Many of these tasks are subjective and can be heavily influenced by a patient's level of education.
The testing takes a significant amount of time for patients and staff and is often considered a chore. We are investigating the use of a rapid (5-7 minute), objective, easy-to-employ touchscreen assessment that measures several neurocognitive parameters in our patients receiving radiotherapy. The tests provide critical data on the incidence, severity, and duration of beam brain. In addition, we hope to enhance our patient’s visits to Sentara Norfolk General and our clinics by playing this fun mind puzzle.
We hope to alleviate the boredom of waiting times and provide a mental distraction before treatment.