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Published on: January 11, 2016
Behavioural problems in children with infantile hydrocephalus
E Fernell1, C Gillberg, L von Wendt
1Department of Paediatrics, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
Insights
Children with infantile hydrocephalus and mental retardation show more behavioral issues, particularly inattentiveness and hyperactivity. Those with infantile hydrocephalus but no mental retardation did not differ from controls.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Infantile hydrocephalus (non-spina bifida) can impact child development.
- Behavioral problems are a concern in children with neurological conditions.
- Understanding these issues is crucial for early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the occurrence of behavioral problems in children with infantile hydrocephalus.
- To compare behavioral issues in children with infantile hydrocephalus and mental retardation versus those without.
- To identify specific behavioral patterns associated with infantile hydrocephalus.
Main Methods:
- Population-based study design.
- Utilized parent questionnaires for data collection.
- Compared children with infantile hydrocephalus (with and without mental retardation) to a control group.
Main Results:
- Children with infantile hydrocephalus and mental retardation exhibited significantly more behavioral problems.
- Inattentiveness and hyperactivity were prominent behavioral issues in this subgroup.
- No significant behavioral differences were observed between children with infantile hydrocephalus (no mental retardation) and controls.
Conclusions:
- Mental retardation is a key factor associated with increased behavioral problems in infantile hydrocephalus.
- Targeted behavioral support may be needed for children with infantile hydrocephalus and co-occurring mental retardation.
- Further research into the specific mechanisms linking infantile hydrocephalus, mental retardation, and behavior is warranted.
Abstract:
The occurrence of behavioural problems in a population-based series of children with infantile hydrocephalus (non-spina bifida) was analysed, using parent questionnaires. Children with both infantile hydrocephalus and mental retardation had significantly more behavioural problems compared with those with no mental retardation and controls. Inattentiveness and hyperactivity were particularly typical. No differences were found between children with infantile hydrocephalus and no mental retardation and the control group.
