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The effects of hydrocephalus on intelligence, visual perception and school attainment
Insights
Children with spina bifida (SB) show cognitive and educational challenges. Shunt-treated hydrocephalus significantly impacts intelligence and attainment, with visuo-perceptual deficits correlating with lower IQ.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Developmental Psychology
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Spina bifida (SB) is a complex congenital condition affecting neurological development.
- Cognitive and educational outcomes in children with SB vary significantly, influenced by associated conditions like hydrocephalus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the psychological and educational functioning of children with spina bifida at ages five and seven.
- To investigate the impact of hydrocephalus, both spontaneous and shunt-treated, on cognitive abilities and academic attainment in children with SB.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 59 children with spina bifida and matched controls underwent detailed psychological and educational testing.
- Cognitive and academic performance was evaluated at two key developmental stages: five and seven years of age.
Main Results:
- Children with SB without hydrocephalus scored below average but closest to normal controls.
- Spontaneously arrested hydrocephalus was associated with backward abilities, while shunt-treated hydrocephalus correlated with significantly impaired intelligence and attainment.
- Abnormal visuo-perceptual functioning was strongly linked to intellectual deficits, and many children performed below expected levels for their age and IQ.
Conclusions:
- The severity of cognitive and educational deficits in children with spina bifida is influenced by the presence and treatment of hydrocephalus.
- Visuo-perceptual impairments are a significant factor contributing to intellectual and academic underachievement in this population.
- Early and comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments are crucial for children with spina bifida to identify and address specific learning challenges.
Abstract:
A group of 59 children with spina bifida, and a group of matched controls, were given detailed psychological and educational tests at five and seven years. The scores of the control group were similar to the national figures. The scores of the children with spina bifida only (without hydrocephalus) were closest to normal, but still below average. Those with spontaneously arrested hydrocephalus were in the backward range of abilities, and those with shunt-treated hydrocephalus had scores which generally were incompatible with normal levels of intelligence and attainment. Abnormal visuo-perceptual functioning closely correlated with defects in intelligence. The results of the school-attainment tests paralleled the distribution of intelligence but many of the children were found to be functioning below expectation for both age and measured intelligence.