Language, cognitive and emotional evaluations

Abstract

Adults harboring a diffuse low-grade glioma (DLGG) present most of the time without evident cognitive disorders. Nevertheless, extensive and specific cognitive assessments often highlight disorders in cognitive functioning, especially concerning memory, attentional resources, and information processing speed, which may affect negatively quality of life. Therefore, whatever may be the chosen therapeutic option, cognitive functioning must be assessed longitudinally in all patients. Such a longitudinal assessment may provide significant information about tumor progression, on the one hand, and allow to put the bases of a cognitive rehabilitation program if needed, on the other hand. Based on their strong experience in the care of DLGG patients, the authors thoroughly describe the different steps of the neuropsychological management. Cognitive, emotional and language perioperative assessments are reported, and different possible avenues of improvement are further discussed.