A meta-analysis of the sensitivity of various neuropsychological tests used to detect chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment in patients with breast cancer.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To identify which neuropsychological tests have been used to evaluate chemotherapy-induced impairment in various domains of cognitive function in patients with breast cancer and to determine the sensitivity of each of the tests through estimation of effect size.

DATA SOURCES

Original studies published from 1966-June 2006.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Although an array of neuropsychological tests are available to measure the various domains of cognitive function, information is lacking regarding the sensitivity and specificity of the tests to detect changes in cognitive function from chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis provides initial data on the sensitivity of some neuropsychological tests to determine chemotherapy-induced changes in cognitive function in patients with breast cancer.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

The identification of sensitive neuro-psychological tests is crucial to further understanding of chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments.