Can radiotherapy damage my mother’s brain at 74?

Question

Hello, Doctor,

I am the son of a 74-year-old woman who was diagnosed with endometrial cancer three years ago. It has now unfortunately developed brain metastases from the spread of her cancer through the lungs. Her oncologist has recommended whole brain radiation therapy, and we have agreed to proceed, but our biggest concern right now is what will happen to her memory and her thinking after the treatment.

She was already showing mild forgetfulness before the diagnosis, which her GP had attributed to age-related changes, but nothing serious. Her latest MMSE score was 24 out of 30, which the neurologist said is in the mild impairment range. Her neurologist mentioned something about hippocampal sparing radiation, but we don't fully understand if that option is suitable for her case and whether it can help protect her memory better during treatment. Please tell me,

She lives alone for most of the week and is very independent about managing her own medications and daily schedule. After completing brain radiation for the endometrial cancer metastasis,

How significantly can her cognition decline post radiation therapy?
What time period does this usually happen in?
Will she still be able to recognise family members and handle basic tasks like cooking?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I wish your mother a speedy recovery. First, she should receive radiotherapy to the brain, because this can reduce the size of the tumor and may even lead to complete shrinkage. The number of sessions is usually not large, and the side effects are generally mild. Neurological functions often improve significantly, and she can return to her daily activities normally.

The next step is to give immunotherapy to reduce further spread and limit the tumor so it does not progress further. The side effects of immunotherapy are usually minimal, and it does not cause major problems, unlike chemotherapy.

It is also very important to provide full emotional support and proper nutritional support. She should eat well-washed fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water. These measures make a big difference in her overall condition and outcome.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.