November 27, 2024

Parkinsonism among glioblastoma patients               

A majority of glioblastoma patients is diagnosed in their 60’s or older.  This is also an age that insidious neurodegenerative diseases first occur in this population.  Treatment for the glioblastoma can have a devastating impact on their neurological functions.  But these patients are treated similar to younger ones with radiation and chemotherapies.  For example, my research team uncovered a patient with Lewy body dementia who experienced a rapid neurological decline after radiation and chemotherapy (see the accompanying article).  At Brown University Health Cancer Institute and Rhode Island Hospital, we are performing clinical and translational research to identify biomarkers that can differential those who are at risk for neurodegeneration so that new therapy or neuroprotective measures can be applied to this vulnerable population.  Research is an important means of improving our current treatments.  You can contribute and be a part of this effort.

Yes, you can make a difference!
Sincerely yours, 

​Eric T Wong, MD, MA, FANA, FAAN

Lewy body disease as a potential negative outcome modifier of glioblastoma treatment: a case report