Testing for "Chemo Brain" as a Disability

[You may have seen my recent interview with Joanna Morales of the Cancer Legal Resource Center.  Joanna very kindly answered my questions about workplace protections for people with "chemo brain" and she did a fabulous job (See October 4, 2010).

In this week's post, prominent clinical psychologist Robert Ferguson, PhD, discusses how difficult it has been for scientists in general to define cognitive "disability."  He zooms in a bit on one of his case studies.

A Breast Cancer Survivor Asks: Will My Mind Return to Normal? [From Susan]

Hi,
I was diagnosed with breast cancer over seven years ago and underwent a lumpectomy, chemo and radiation.  Immediately after my first chemo, I experienced severe difficulties remembering things and felt like I was definitely  not on top of my game.  I was immediately placed on disability for my "cognitive deficit"  because I was unable to perform my job as a medical sales representative. I have been seen by many specialists, including a neurologist, neuropsychologist and even had brain scans. I have gone to physical, occupational and cognitive therapy.  Basically, I have suffered loss of a job, a financially secure retirement, loss of respect from family and friends because they have no idea what has happened to me.  And although I have tried to advocate for gaining back some brain cells...I have become very discouraged. Will I ever get better?? -- Susan

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 A RESPONSE FROM 

DR. ROB FERGUSON

 Hello Susan,

You are certainly not alone.  In general, it is believed about 40% of people who have had chemotherapy can have mild to moderate dysfunction with memory and/or attention, well beyond the time of last chemotherapy.   Evidence from research suggests these problems do not get progressively worse, such as might be expected with forms of dementia or Alzheimer's Disease.  However, some research suggests these problems are long lasting over years.