From the Research
The ICD-10 code for memory loss secondary to chemotherapy is G31.84 (Mild cognitive impairment, so stated). This code is used when a patient experiences cognitive impairment, including memory loss, that is directly attributed to chemotherapy treatment, often referred to as "chemo brain" or "chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment" 1. In cases where the memory loss is more severe or meets criteria for dementia, the code F18.97 (Other chemically induced mental disorders with dementia) might be considered.
When documenting this condition, it's essential to clearly establish the causal relationship between the chemotherapy and the cognitive symptoms in the medical record. The cognitive effects of chemotherapy can involve multiple domains including:
- Memory
- Attention
- Processing speed
- Executive function and may be temporary or persistent. These symptoms occur due to neurotoxic effects of chemotherapy agents on brain tissue, oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, and disruption of neurogenesis 2, 3, 4, 5.
Treatment typically involves cognitive rehabilitation, compensatory strategies, and addressing contributing factors like fatigue, anxiety, or depression that may exacerbate cognitive symptoms. Recent studies, such as the Neuromod-PCSCI trial 1, are investigating the effects of multi-session transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in combination with cognitive training on cognition and quality of life in women with post-chemotherapy subjective cognitive impairment (PCSCI).