Patient-reported functional executive challenges and caregiver confirmation in adult brain tumor survivors

Abstract : Purpose:The main objective of this study was to provide further information concerning the validity of patient-reported executive function (EF) in survivors of primary brain tumor (PBT) compared with a report provided by each patient’s caregiver. Methods: Forty survivors of PBT, 40 non-cancer controls and their proxies completed an assessment of functional executive disorders (e.g., planning, inhibition, shifting, action initiation). Comparisons of self and informant EF reports were examined, for both patients and non-cancer controls. The extent of the concordance between patients’ reports and their caregivers’ reports was also determined. Results: PBT survivors and their caregivers reported more problems related to EF in contrast with the non-cancer comparison group (significant differences). There was a high level of agreement between patients’ and caregivers’ ratings within the patient group. Conclusions: This study provides evidence suggesting that at an average of 3.67 (SD = 2.31) years following treatment for a PBT, EF difficulties are reported by patients and their caregivers. This study establishes a consistency between what is reported by survivors and what is reported by those who frequently interact with them. Further research investigating the link between these ratings and quality of life as well as other functions is encouraged. Implications for Cancer Survivors: This study’s results demonstrate the importance of listening to PBT survivors’ perception of EF difficulties. While not confirmed by neuropsychological evaluations, the functional executive challenges reported by these survivors’ close relatives reflect what PBT survivors themselves report. Specialists should pay close attention to these difficulties to guarantee optimal post-cancer care.