Developmental outcome in a group of twins: Relation to perinatal factors and general movements

The quality of general movements (GMs) has proven to have predictive value for the developmental outcome, but this has not yet been studied in twins.

Our aim was to analyse the quality of GMs and neurological and developmental outcome in relation to the gestational age (GA), mode of conception and other perinatal risk factors in a group of twins.

The documentation of twins referred for follow-up in the period from 1998 to 2016 was studied retrospectively. Data concerning the quality of GMs, perinatal risk factors and developmental outcome were analysed.

Eighty-nine twin pairs, GA from 24 to 38 weeks (median 35.0; IQR 3), birth weight 670 g-3820 g (median 2323; IQR 645) were included.

Results of neurological, psychological and speech/language development and school outcome were analysed.

GMs at term age and at three to four months postterm age did not differ with regard to the mode of conception. Preterm birth was significantly related to GMs at three to four months postterm age. At term age, GMs were significantly related to neurological outcome, while at three to four months postterm age, GMs were related to both the neurological and psychological outcome. Difficulties in speech/language development were diagnosed in almost half of the children, more frequently in boys and children with lower Apgar scores.

The study highlights the value of GMs for predicting the developmental outcome in twins and indicates the importance of developmental, especially speech/language, follow-up in twins.