Publications by authors named "Arja H Harila"
Background: Studies have established that radiotherapy for childhood brain tumors (BTs) increases the risk of cerebrovascular disease (CVD); however, it is unclear how this will affect cognitive function. This study aimed to investigate the associations between radiotherapy-induced CVD, white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), and neurocognitive outcomes in adult survivors of childhood BTs.
Methods: In a cross-sectional setting, we conducted a national cohort that included 68 radiotherapy-treated survivors of childhood BTs after a median follow-up of 20 years.
Article Synopsis
- Childhood brain tumor survivors show significant signs of lumbar disc degeneration on MRI compared to age and sex-matched controls, indicating a higher risk of spine issues due to treatment.
- The study found higher Pfirrmann grades, more lumbar disc protrusions and extrusions, and a greater number of high-intensity zone lesions in the survivor group.
- Age at diagnosis and blood pressure were linked to the extent of intervertebral disc degeneration, with those diagnosed later in childhood experiencing less degeneration.