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Regional Brain Volume Differences Were Associated With Behavioural Outcomes in Children Born Preterm: A Systematic
Yolanda Marín Almagro1, Macarena Román Ruiz1, Natalia Jiménez Luque1
1Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain.
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|April 27, 2026
Summary
Children born preterm show higher rates of neurodevelopmental and emotional issues, linked to altered brain volumes in regions like the amygdala and thalamus. Early identification and intervention are key for these vulnerable children.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Children born preterm (before 32 weeks gestation) are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental and emotional challenges.
- Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of these outcomes is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review associations between brain structural volumes and behavioral outcomes in children born preterm.
- To identify specific brain regions implicated in neurodevelopmental and emotional difficulties in this population.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science (2013-2023).
- Inclusion criteria: studies using magnetic resonance imaging for brain volumetric measures and assessing behavioral outcomes in children aged 24 months to 12 years born preterm.
- Eight studies involving 564 children (27-36 weeks gestation) were included.
Main Results:
- Preterm-born children exhibited higher prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and anxiety symptoms.
- These behavioral outcomes were associated with reduced or altered volumes in limbic and subcortical brain regions, including the amygdala and thalamus.
- Studies were conducted across USA, Sweden, Norway, Australia, and Switzerland.
Conclusions:
- Volumetric brain differences in preterm infants are linked to later behavioral and emotional difficulties, suggesting early neurobiological vulnerability.
- Findings support the need for early identification of at-risk preterm children.
- Targeted intervention strategies are recommended to mitigate long-term challenges.
