Neurocognitive outcome of HS-WBRT vs WBRT in patients with brain metastases: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is used prophylactically and therapeutically in patients with brain metastases, effectively controlling intracerebral tumors and reducing neurological mortality. However, WBRT poses a significant risk of cognitive decline. Hippocampus-sparing WBRT (HS-WBRT) offers a potential solution by preserving memory and other cognitive functions. This study evaluates neurocognitive outcomes of HS-WBRT compared to WBRT in patients with brain metastases.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Embase, and CENTRAL for cohort studies and clinical trials reporting neurocognitive outcomes of HS-WBRT vs WBRT, up to March 2024. Non-English studies and those lacking neurocognitive outcomes were excluded. Eligible studies underwent data extraction and analysis focused on neurocognitive function testing.

Results: Of 9 eligible studies, 7 were included in the quantitative analysis. HS-WBRT significantly reduced cognitive decline compared to WBRT, with improvements in Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT) scores for total recall (SMD = 0.42; P = .02) and delayed recall (SMD = 0.25; P = .02). Cognitive impairment measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was also significantly lower in the HS-WBRT group (SMD = 1.21; P < .00001).

Conclusion: HS-WBRT demonstrates a clear advantage over WBRT in preserving neurocognitive function in patients with brain metastases, as reflected in HVLT and MoCA scores. Future studies should further explore adverse effects and survival outcomes to guide clinical practice.