Communication and swallowing outcomes of children diagnosed with childhood brain tumor or leukemia: A systematic review.

The purpose of this systematic review was to appraise and synthesize evidence on communication and swallowing outcomes associated with childhood brain tumor or leukemia (CBTL). A comprehensive database and grey literature search was conducted. Studies included: (a) peer-reviewed research published between 1998 and 2019, (b) English language, (c) children aged 0-16 years diagnosed with CBTL, and (d) used outcome measures focused on communication and/or swallowing. Quality assessment was completed and certainty of evidence rated using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Fifty-seven studies met inclusion criteria: 46 examined communication, seven examined swallowing, and four considered both. Most studies were descriptive and prospective. Communication difficulties were frequently reported and apparent at one or more points from diagnosis to survivorship. Swallowing difficulties were frequently reported during oncology treatment. Despite quality assessment revealing methodological shortcomings, results have implications for clinical services and future research.