Radiotherapy and early dementia

[fancy426]

My husband, age 53, was diagnosed with cancer at the base of the tongue 3 years ago.  He underwent 7 weeks of radiation therapy, weekly chemo (Taxol), and amofostine injections.  Always fairly "air headed", I have noticed a distinct increase in his forgetfulness.  There also seems to be subtle personality changes.  Are there studies that indicate this type of treatment might trigger early onset dementia?  

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Forgetfulness and dementia after radiotherapy for tongue cancer is not common. However radiotherapy for brain tumors is known to cause dementia and memory lapses. I would suggest you to schedule an appointment with a physician and undergo complete clinical evaluation.

[fancy426]

Is the forgetfulness and dementia after radiotherapy progressive or static?  What doctor would be best to consult-his ENT, primary care, or neurologist?  Thanks

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Dementia which occurs after radiotherapy is due to radionecrosis of brain tissue due to radiation. Whether it will be progressive or not will depend on the extent of brain damage. Radionecrosis occurs after many months or few years after cessation of radiotherapy.
I would suggest you can schedule an appointment with a neurologist as he will be able to do a complete neurological examination and maybe order a CT scan of brain to diagnose the cause of his forgetfulness. Let me know if you need more information.