Proposal of a diagnostic algorithm for radiation-induced dropped head syndrome in long-term childhood cancer survivors based on a prospective study in a specialized clinical setting and a review of the literature.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To prospectively assess the incidence of Dropped Head Syndrome (DHS) in childhood cancer survivors (CCS) and to develop and evaluate a diagnostic algorithm for DHS.

Methods

A systematic literature search for DHS in combination with neck radiotherapy (RT) exposure was performed. Analyses and a combination of the most common examination methods were integrated into a diagnostic algorithm. Almost all CCSs visiting the local late effects clinic between May 2020 and April 2022 were included in the study. CCS exposed to neck RT with doses ≥ 19 Gy received standardized clinical and neurological assessment and, in case of abnormal results, an MRI scan to confirm muscle atrophy.

Results

Two hundred and five CCS were included of whom 41 received RT to the neck with ≥ 19

SUBMITTER: Rieken S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10725355 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature