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Present conceptualization of early childhood neurodevelopmental disabilities

Michael I Shevell1

  • 1Departments of Neurology/Neurosurgery & Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal Children's Hospital-McGill University Health Centre, Quebec, Canada. michael.shevell@muhc.mcgill.ca

Journal of Child Neurology
|September 10, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Neurodevelopmental disabilities are common child health issues requiring neurologic assessment. Current consensus allows accurate diagnosis of subtypes and recognition of dual diagnoses, guiding future research.

Area of Science:

  • Child neurology
  • Developmental pediatrics
  • Pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders

Background:

  • Neurodevelopmental disabilities represent a significant challenge in child health, necessitating specialized neurologic assessment and intervention.
  • These conditions are characterized by disturbances in developmental skill acquisition, lacking uniform diagnostic criteria.
  • Recognition relies on meeting current consensus opinions for various recognized subtypes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the current understanding and diagnostic approaches to neurodevelopmental disabilities in children.
  • To emphasize the possibility of dual diagnoses within this heterogeneous group of disorders.
  • To highlight the dynamic nature of these conceptualizations and their role in guiding future research.

Main Methods:

  • Diagnosis relies on fulfilling current consensus opinion for recognized subtypes of neurodevelopmental disabilities.
  • Assessment involves evaluating the acquisition of basic developmental skills in a chronologically appropriate manner.
  • Conceptualization of these disorders is based on expert consensus and evolving clinical understanding.

Main Results:

  • Distinct subtypes of neurodevelopmental disabilities can be accurately diagnosed based on present consensus.
  • Dual diagnoses of neurodevelopmental disabilities in the same child are possible and recognized.
  • Current diagnostic frameworks are considered dynamic and subject to refinement.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate diagnosis of specific neurodevelopmental disability subtypes is achievable with current consensus.
  • The possibility of dual diagnoses underscores the complexity of these conditions.
  • Ongoing research will be guided by evolving conceptualizations to improve understanding and treatment.

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