Radiation-induced cognitive impairment and its implications for Anesthesia selection

Abstract

Cancer remains a significant cause of death globally, highlighting the need for treatment strategies that are both effective and minimize side effects. Radiation therapy has become a foundational standard of cancer treatment and is included in a majority of treatment plans due to its innovative ability to pinpoint malignancies. Although radiation techniques are becoming increasingly more accurate, many approaches such as whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) still maintain a risk for significant cognitive side effects, collectively referred to as radiation-induced cognitive impairment (RICI). This condition has underlying mechanisms including direct neural damage, blood brain barrier disruption, neurogenesis inhibition, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress, all of which have been shown to lead to deficits in memory, learning, and executive function. Understanding that the pathogenesis of RICI is largely multifactorial is essential for developing neuroprotective strategies. Anesthesia considerations play a critical role in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy and surgery, as anesthetic agents may influence the incidence of cognitive impairment. Preoperative screening, intraoperative management, and post operative consideration are crucial in minimizing these effects. This paper discusses modern radiation therapies on cognitive outcomes, the pathogenesis of RICI, and the importance of anesthesia intervention in reducing cognitive impairments in cancer patients receiving radiotherapy.