Cognitive training using virtual reality for children with brain tumors undergoing radiotherapy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of cognitive training delivered through virtual reality for children receiving radiotherapy for brain tumors. Participants will be randomly assigned to either virtual reality cognitive training or cognitive training via an iPad, with both groups undergoing cognitive assessments before and after the intervention. The study will also measure brain activity changes using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to assess neurocognitive benefits. The findings will inform the development of a larger, definitive study.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Initiating radiotherapy for a BT
* Between 8-22 years of age at the time of enrollment
* English or Spanish as the primary language
* Research participant and one parent willing to participate and provide consent/assent according to institutional guidelines
* Participant willing to take part in required aspects of Cogmed training

Exclusion Criteria:

* Significant impairment in global intellectual functioning (estimated or full scale IQ \< 70 based on standardized testing routinely conducted on primary treatment protocols or as part of the New Oncology Program in Psychology \[NOPP\])
* History of significant neurological disease preceding BT diagnosis including stroke or head injury with loss of consciousness
* Major sensory or motor impairment that would preclude valid cognitive testing secondary to inability to complete study procedures (e.g., blindness, paresis, poorly controlled seizures/photosensitive epilepsy, inadequate balance to sit or stand unassisted to complete cognitive training)
* Psychiatric condition that would preclude or take precedence over study participation (e.g. active psychosis, suicidal ideation)
* Need for general anesthesia during radiation therapy (note: can participate if only sedated for simulation/planning but not daily treatment)

Where it's running

• St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
  Memphis, Tennessee, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Andrew Heitzer, PhD, ABPP-CN — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
• Study coordinator: Heather Conklin, PhD
• Email: referralinfo@stjude.org
• Phone: 888-226-4343

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.