Lymphoma Therapy Improved Memory in Older Patients
Older adults with large B-cell lymphoma saw memory gains one year after receiving axicabtagene ciloleucel therapy.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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Older patients with large B-cell lymphoma experienced improved memory function following treatment with axicabtagene ciloleucel, or axi-cel. This study tracked 155 patients to compare long-term cognitive outcomes between younger and older adult populations.
Why it matters
These findings help clarify the neurocognitive impact of advanced cellular therapies in aging populations. Understanding how treatments affect brain function is vital for managing quality of life for older patients undergoing intensive cancer care.
In a study of 155 patients, including 69 adults aged 65 and older, researchers compared cognitive trajectories through standardized testing. While older adults showed higher rates of baseline impairment, they experienced significant improvements in immediate verbal and delayed memory after one year.
The players
Moffitt Cancer Center
A Florida-based research institution and cancer treatment center that led the study.
The details
Researchers evaluated cognitive function by measuring attention, executive function, verbal ability, and visuospatial skills. The study monitored changes from pre-infusion levels through 360 days post-treatment. Notably, older adults who had undergone four or more previous therapies saw particularly significant neuropsychological improvements, suggesting the treatment may help mitigate baseline cognitive deficits.
Timeline
Baseline neuropsychological testing occurred before infusion.
Post-treatment testing took place at 30 days after.
Testing was repeated 90 days after.
Final assessments were completed 360 days after.
Health Landscape
This research follows a pattern set by ongoing efforts at the Moffitt Cancer Center to define the long-term cognitive side-effect profile of complex immunotherapies. It provides necessary data in the evolving field of cellular therapy, where clinical focus has historically prioritized survival outcomes over cognitive trajectories.
If you or a loved one are considering cellular therapies, it is worth discussing potential cognitive side effects and monitoring plans with your oncology team. Tracking baseline memory function before treatment can help your physician identify and manage changes during the recovery process.
The takeaway
While older adults may enter treatment with higher levels of neurocognitive impairment, they can still achieve significant memory improvements post-therapy. Focus on discussing cognitive monitoring during your care planning, as early assessment provides a better baseline for tracking long-term health.
Further reading
For broader insights on cognitive health, visit our Alzheimer’s section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oncology Nurse Advisor.
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