Chemotherapy Induced Cognitive Impairment
This study is investigating 'chemo fog', also known as 'chemobrain', which describes problems with memory and thinking that some people experience after chemotherapy for breast cancer. While many chemotherapy side effects are well understood, 'chemo fog' isn't, and doctors currently have limited ways to help. Researchers believe that chemotherapy might cause inflammation in specific parts of the brain important for concentration and memory. They will use brain scans and blood tests to look for signs of this inflammation, along with checking thinking abilities, before, during, and after chemotherapy. The goal is to understand what causes 'chemo fog' so that future studies can develop treatments to reduce its effects and help breast cancer patients get back to their normal lives after treatment.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you have chemotherapy for breast cancer, some people notice changes in how well they think, remember things, or concentrate. This is sometimes called 'chemo fog' or 'chemobrain'. It can be really frustrating and impact daily life, but because we don't fully understand what causes it, it's hard for doctors to help right now.
This study aims to discover why 'chemo fog' happens. The research team thinks that chemotherapy might cause certain chemicals in the body to create inflammation (swelling) in areas of the brain that are important for clear thinking and making new memories. They can't directly measure these chemicals in the brain, but they believe that a special type of brain scan can show if there's too much iron. Higher iron levels might be a sign of inflammation in the brain. They will also look at blood samples for signs of inflammation.
To do this, volunteers taking part will have their thinking and memory checked, give blood samples, and have brain scans. This will happen before, during, and after their chemotherapy treatment. By comparing changes in their thinking abilities with the brain scans and blood tests, the researchers hope to piece together what's going on. This information is a really important first step to help them design future studies that look at how to reduce 'chemo fog' and improve the lives of people after breast cancer treatment.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to understand why 'chemo fog' happens after breast cancer treatment.
- It will involve brain scans, blood tests, and memory/thinking assessments.
- The goal is to find clues that could lead to future treatments for 'chemo fog'.
- Participation will happen before, during, and after chemotherapy.
- There are no new treatments in this study, it's about gathering information.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for both women and men who are aged 18 or older. You would need to have been recently diagnosed with a specific type of breast cancer (called HER2 negative) and be scheduled to receive certain types of chemotherapy (either EC-Taxane or Taxane-only based chemotherapy).
It's important that you can understand and speak English well enough to take part in the study and that you are willing to give your informed consent, which means you understand and agree to participate.
However, some people won't be able to join. This includes anyone with a pre-existing mental health condition or disability. You also can't participate if you have something in your body that would prevent you from having an MRI brain scan, like certain types of pacemakers. You also need to be able to lie still for the brain scan.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or over?
- Have you been diagnosed with HER2 negative breast cancer?
- Are you about to start EC-Taxane or Taxane-only chemotherapy?
- Can you speak and understand English well?
- Do you not have an existing mental health condition or a device in your body that prevents MRI scans?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will have several assessments. These will include tests to check your memory, concentration, and thinking skills. You will also be asked to give blood samples. Additionally, you will have special brain scans using a machine called an MRI. These assessments will happen at three different times: once before you start your chemotherapy, again during your chemotherapy treatment, and finally after your chemotherapy has finished. The study aims to look at changes over this entire period, but the total duration of your participation will depend on the length of your chemotherapy treatment.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- NHS GrampianVerified postcodeAberdeen, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'chemo fog'?
'Chemo fog' or 'chemobrain' is a common term for problems with memory, concentration, and how quickly you can think, which can happen to some people during or after chemotherapy.
Will I get medicine in this study?
No, this study is about understanding 'chemo fog' rather than testing a specific treatment. You will continue to receive your standard chemotherapy treatment as planned by your doctors.
What is an MRI brain scan?
An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, in this case, your brain. It does not use X-rays.
Will my doctors know if I take part?
Yes, the study team will keep your medical team informed about your participation, ensuring that your care remains coordinated.
How long will my involvement in the study last?
Your involvement will last from before your chemotherapy starts, through your treatment, and until after your chemotherapy has finished. The exact length will depend on your individual treatment plan.
How to find out more
Teresa Morris
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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