Executive Functions, Intellectual Capacity, and Psychiatric Disorders in Adults with Type 1 Chiari Malformation

Contrary to popular belief, the cerebellum is involved not only in motor planning, balance, and coordination but also in cognitive processes. The present study aimed to investigate executive functions (EFs), intellectual capacity, and psychiatric disorders in adults with type 1 Chiari malformation, which is defined as a hindbrain anomaly that involves the cerebellum.

The study included 62 adults, with 29 in the CM group and 33 in the control group. EFs were evaluated using the Stroop test, number sequence learning test, and standardized mini-mental state examination (SMMSE). The intelligence quotient (IQ) was measured using the Kent EGY and Porteus maze tests, and psychiatric disorders were evaluated using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5, Clinician Version (DSM-5-CV).

The CM group took longer than the control to complete the Stroop test for each section (P < 0.005). Although the mean IQ scores of both groups were within the normal range, the CM group had a lower mean IQ score than the control group (P < 0.005). Although the mean SMMSE scores of both groups were within the normal range, the CM group had a lower mean SMMSE score than the control group (P < 0.005). The CM group had a higher rate of psychiatric comorbidities than the control group (P < 0.005).

The study found that subjects with type 1 Chiari malformation performed worse in EFs than healthy controls and had a higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders.