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A rational approach to the child with mental retardation for the paediatrician

Jean-François Lemay1, Anthony R Herbert, Deborah M Dewey

  • 1University of Calgary, Developmental Pediatrics, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta;

Paediatrics & Child Health
|January 7, 2010
PubMed

Insights

This article clarifies the complex field of mental retardation (MR), offering a rational approach for pediatricians. It addresses diagnostic challenges, variable prevalence, diverse causes, and the pediatrician's crucial role in managing MR.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Clinical Genetics

Background:

  • Mental Retardation (MR) presents diagnostic and management challenges in pediatric settings.
  • The understanding, terminology, and classification of MR are evolving.
  • Prevalence rates vary due to differing classification systems and methodologies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a clearer understanding of MR.
  • To outline a rational approach for pediatricians in assessing and managing MR.
  • To discuss the variability in prevalence, etiologies, and diagnostic work-up.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on MR.
  • Analysis of classification systems and diagnostic approaches.
  • Discussion of etiological factors and clinical presentation.

Main Results:

  • MR often presents as developmental delay in infancy or preschool years.
  • Etiologies of MR are diverse, with few completely treatable causes.
  • No single universally accepted etiological work-up exists.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatricians are central to establishing treatment goals and supporting families of children with MR.
  • A structured approach is needed to navigate the complexities of MR assessment and management.
  • Further research is needed to standardize definitions and diagnostic processes for MR.

Keywords:
ChildrenDevelopmental delayMental retardation

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