Abstract
Pediatric brain tumors comprise the second most common pediatric malignant tumors and affect key aspects of development such as learning and gaining experience in society. School re-entry during or after treatment is one of the most important problems that affect pediatric patients. There are some research studies of cognitive problems and maladjustment among patients with pediatric brain tumors, but such research is limited, especially in Japan. We therefore investigated the cognitive function, quality of life (QOL), and adaptive behavior of pediatric patients with brain tumors after school re-entry, and from the viewpoint of occupational therapy, we considered how to support these children. The participants in this study were 10 pediatric patients with brain tumors, aged 6–16 years. Cognitive function was assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition, and QOL was assessed using the Japanese version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory version 4.0 core scale and brain tumor module. The Asahide-shiki Social Adaptability skill test was used to assess adaptive behavior. The mean IQ score was 92.9±10.3 and we found that many children had normal scores in cognitive function. In addition, many patients and parents had a relatively good QOL. In contrast, 40.0–90.0% of the children exhibited large interindividual differences in their abilities. Over half of the children exhibited decreased social adaptation skills, especially those in life and personal relationships. We expect that occupational therapy is important to improve social adaptation skills in pediatric patients with brain tumors. Studies with larger cohorts are needed to determine the appropriate support with occupational therapy.
