Our laboratory studies the neurobehavioral consequences of chronic medical illness and its treatment in children and adults, particularly in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), lymphoma, and HIV disease. Disease specific abnormalities in intellectual and neuropsychological function are investigated and treatment related changes in these functions documented as they affect quality of life. Adverse sequelae of central nervous system (CNS) therapy, including cranial irradiation, in long-term survivors of cancer and HIV associated encephalopathy are areas of special interest. Brain imaging and cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities, as well as laboratory markers of disease status are studied to associate neurobehavioral changes with physiologic measures indicative of disease or treatment associated CNS abnormalities.
We are further developing clinical trial methodology to evaluate neurobehavioral changes in therapeutic protocols, particularly for children with chronic medical illness.

Supportive Care Protocols

Last Updated: March 10, 2003

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