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Midface Hypoplasia and Cranial Base Morphology in Syndromic Craniosynostosis: A Comparative Analysis Study Using a Predictive Regression Model
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Risk factors for visual-motor integration and intelligence in children with craniofacial anomalies

Jolanda M E Okkerse1, Frits A Beemer, Gideon J Mellenbergh

  • 1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus MC, The Netherlands. j.okkerse@erasmusmc.nl

The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|August 4, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Children with craniofacial anomalies (CFA) often have normal visual-motor integration (VMI) and intelligence. However, brain anomalies, syndromic diagnoses, and hospitalizations are risk factors for poorer outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric neurology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Craniofacial surgery

Background:

  • Craniofacial anomalies (CFA) can impact neurodevelopmental outcomes.
  • Understanding the relationship between specific condition variables and child development is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between various condition variables and child development outcomes (visual-motor integration and intelligence) in children with CFA.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 217 children (aged 5-16) with CFA was assessed.
  • Developmental Test of VMI and standardized IQ tests were administered.
  • Data on brain anomalies, syndromic diagnosis, hypertelorism, phenotypical expression, hospitalizations, and sex were collected.

Main Results:

  • Significant correlations were found between VMI/IQ and brain anomalies, syndromic diagnosis, hypertelorism, phenotypical expression, hospitalizations, and sex.
  • Most children (approx. 85%) scored within the normal or borderline range for VMI and intelligence.
  • Approximately 15% exhibited poor VMI skills or mental retardation.

Conclusions:

  • While many children with CFA develop within normal ranges, specific factors increase the risk for developmental challenges.
  • Brain anomalies, syndromic diagnosis, hypertelorism, severe phenotypical expression, frequent hospitalizations, and female sex are identified risk factors for VMI and intelligence deficits.

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