Dynamics of cognitive functions in patients with hemoblastosis treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Introduction. The number of bone marrow transplantations is increasing worldwide. However, the issue of cognitive impairments following this procedure in hematologic malignancies remains poorly investigated.

Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the level and dynamics of memory and attention parameters in oncological patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Material and methods. The study was conducted in three stages: pre-operation and two post-operation stages, on days 21 and 60, with control points corresponding to medical protocol milestones. The study involved 43 patients aged 18 to 62, including 22 males and 21 females.

Results. The study revealed that most memory-related parameters were at low levels, which may be attributed to preoperative chemotherapy, and further decreased cognitive functions throughout the study (p=0.014, p=0.082, statistically significant in both cases). Attention assessment results indicated predominantly normal levels, while attention-switching parameters decreased from the second to the third stage of the study (p=0.33). The affective sphere before bone marrow transplantation was characterized by depressive symptoms at the sub-depressive level and upper bounds of situational anxiety. By the third stage of the study, these variables gradually decreased to normal values (p=0.03, p=0.07).

Conclusions. In the context of this study, a decline in cognitive functions, including mediated, short-term, long-term, and mechanical memory, was observed. A similar trend was noted in attention concentration and attention-switching capabilities.

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