PO36LATE LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION IMPAIRMENTS IN YOUNG ADULT SURVIVORS OF THE CHILDHOOD POSTERIOR FOSSA TUMOURS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cognitive impairments in childhood Posterior Fossa Tumour (PFT) survivors are well documented. Yet, there is limited knowledge about the extent of difficulties with linguistic processing in this patient group, which could impact negatively on long-term care and rehabilitation practices. METHOD: 12 patients (16-21 years at test; 4 male), at least 12 months post-PFT resection, were recruited as part of the larger ongoing study. They were assessed using the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, 5th edition, Frenchay Dysarthria Assessment (FDA), Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RPM) and Purdue Pegboard test (PPT). RESULTS: Group mean performance on the Core Language Scale (CLS) and separate language indices were in the lower average range, with at risk/borderline performance in reading, listening comprehension and structured writing. Patient scores ranged from very low (-2SD) to above average (+2SD) and performance was predicted by age of diagnosis, tumour histology and treatment. Medium to strong correlations were found between language processing and non-verbal IQ (CLS and RPM r = 0.6), motoric speech (Expressive Language Index and FDA r = 0.7), and manual dexterity (FDA and PPT preferred hand r = 0.8), indicating interdependence across these domains. CONCLUSION: Young people treated for PFT in childhood display long-term deficits in both receptive and expressive language skills that are associated with reduced non-verbal IQ. Expressive language abilities are strongly underpinned by motoric speech and manual dexterity skills. Rehabilitation support of PFT survivors, aimed at improving language and communication abilities, is vital for smooth transition into adulthood.