QOL-26. I’VE GOT FRIENDS NOW: PAEDIATRIC PATIENTS’ EXPERIENCES OF METHYLPHENIDATE TREATMENT FOR NEUROCOGNITIVE LATE-EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH BRAIN TUMOUR

Abstract

BACKGROUNDWhilst rates of survival following paediatric brain tumour have increased, quality of survival continues to present a significant challenge to children and their families. The neurocognitive impact of cranial radiotherapy (CRT) in childhood upon future intellectual development is well established. Both CRT and chemotherapy are associated with medium-term slowed speed of cognitive processing, attention, and memory impairment, and with longer-term failure to achieve pre-morbid intellectual potential and low Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL).Methylphenidate is a psychostimulant drug shown to be effective in alleviating some of the neurocognitive symptoms of cancer treatment, however the subjective experience of paediatric participants is not reported. AIM: The current study aimed to explore the subjective experience of HRQoL in paediatric neuro-oncology patients currently receiving methylphenidate.METHODSA retrospective audit was conducted on 12 paediatric neuro-oncology patients in receipt of methylphenidate. Both standardised and novel measures were used to assess aspects of HRQoL, specifically; social life, perceived independence, mood, confidence, school life, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships and fatigue levels. Data collected were analysed using Thematic Analysis.RESULTSFive key themes were identified; physical, emotional, social, academic and neuropsychological impact.CONCLUSIONThe current findings evidence the perception of patients that methylphenidate supported them to regain previously lost functionality. Methylphenidate has the potential to increase HRQoL in this population and to provide children with the opportunity to regain a sense of normality in their lives.