Cognitive performance of medulloblastoma tumour survivors related to the area of cerebellum damage.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between a damaged cerebellum area and the cognitive performance of medulloblastoma tumour survivors. Also, age-based differences in cognitive performance were tested. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique was used to obtain brain images of survivors. The cognitive performance was tested using Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Revised (WISC-R) and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). Statistical analysis was performed with highly robust permutation tests. There were two anatomical features strongly influencing the cognitive performance of survivors. The extension of the foramen of Luschka had a negative impact on the overall verbal IQ score and some non-verbal scales while the excision of the middle part of the vermis influenced scores in such scales as arithmetic and picture completing. Children with postoperative damages in the area of the middle part of the vermis are more likely to suffer from cognitive dysfunctions after the end of the treatment.