Assessing cognitive effects of whole brain radiation therapy in blood cancer patients

Neurocognitive Outcomes After Whole Brain Radiation Therapy for Hematologic Malignancies

Observational M.D. Anderson Cancer Center · NCT05011045

This study is testing how whole brain radiation therapy affects thinking and memory in blood cancer patients, while also looking at quality of life and brain changes over time.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorM.D. Anderson Cancer Center Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT05011045 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study evaluates the neurocognitive outcomes of patients with hematologic malignancies who receive whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT). It aims to record cognitive function using standard neurocognitive tests and assess quality of life through validated questionnaires. Additionally, the study will explore MRI changes in the brain post-WBRT and investigate the role of Memantine on cognitive outcomes. Patients will undergo assessments at baseline, and then at 2, 6, 12 months, and annually for 5 years after treatment completion.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are receiving radiation therapy for hematologic malignancies and can complete cognitive assessments in English.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving WBRT for hematologic malignancies or those unable to participate in cognitive assessments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the cognitive effects of WBRT, potentially leading to improved management strategies for patients undergoing this treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored cognitive outcomes after radiation therapy, but this specific approach focusing on hematologic malignancies is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years or older
* Treatment with radiation therapy to the brain for a hematologic malignancy (ex. primary central nervous system lymphoma \[PCNSL\], secondary central nervous system lymphoma \[SCNSL\], leukemia, myeloma)
* Proficient and capable of completing tests in English
* Patients with claustrophobia are eligible if the claustrophobia is managed with medication
* Patients with cognitively-impairment are eligible if the impairment is managed with medication
* Patients who are pregnant

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Central Nervous System LymphomaHematopoietic and Lymphoid Cell NeoplasmLeukemiaLymphomaPlasma Cell MyelomaSecondary Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.