Cognitive performance of medulloblastoma tumour survivors related to the area of cerebellum damage

Background: The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between a damaged cerebellum area and the cognitive performance of medulloblastoma tumour survivors. Also, age-based differences in cognitive performance were tested.

Materials and methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique was used to obtain brain images of survivors. The cognitive performance was tested using Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Revised (WISC-R) and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). Statistical analysis was performed with highly robust permutation tests.

Results: There were two anatomical features strongly influencing the cognitive performance of survivors. The extension of the foramen of Luschka had a negative impact on the overall verbal IQ score and some non-verbal scales while the excision of the middle part of the vermis influenced scores in such scales as arithmetic and picture completing.

Conclusions: Children with postoperative damages in the area of the middle part of the vermis are more likely to suffer from cognitive dysfunctions after the end of the treatment.