Mood and Cognitive Disorders in Cancer Patients Receiving Cytokine Therapy

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Abstract
The use of cytokines, especially interferon-α (IFN-α) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) to treat malignancies and chronic viral infections is broadening, and increasing attention is being paid to the effects of these agents on the central nervous system (CNS). It is now known that cytokine therapy can be associated with the development of cognitive and psychiatric adverse effects that range from subtle impairments of attention and memory undetectable on routine medical evaluation to delirium and psychosis. Because IFN-α is a highly effective therapy in certain diseases, it is important that patients continue on treatment at effective doses. Understanding the nature, incidence, severity, and mechanisms of CNS effects is essential to develop interventions to decrease morbidity while maintaining patients on treatment.