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Neuropediatrics 2006; 37(1): 1-5
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-923839
Original Article

Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities in Children with Infantile Hydrocephalus, Aged 4 - 7 Years: A Population-Based, Controlled Study

K. Dalen1 , S. Bruarøy2 , T. Wentzel-Larsen3 , M. Nygaard4 , L. M. Laegreid2
  • 1Department of Biological and Medical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
  • 2Department of Child Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
  • 3Centre for Clinical Research, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
  • 4Department of Child Habilitation, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
Further Information

Publication History

Received: January 28, 2005

Accepted after Revision: December 23, 2005

Publication Date:
15 March 2006 (online)

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Abstract

The aim of this population-based, controlled study was to investigate non-verbal learning disabilities (NLD) in children with infantile hydrocephalus (IH). For this purpose, the results from subtests measuring either assets or deficits within Rourke's model of NLD were analyzed. Children with myelomeningocele (MMC), intracranial tumors, or IQ < 70 were excluded. Of the 52 IH children included in the study, 46 were shunt-treated, whereas 6 were not shunted. The 44 controls were matched according to age, gender, and geographic variables. The Neuropsychological Assessment of Children (NEPSY) was administered to 52 children (age 4 - 7) with IH; (F = 17, M = 35), and to 44 controls (F = 17, M = 27). The tests used were classified along each of the dimensions “assets” or “deficits”, according to Rourke's model of the elements and the dynamics of the NLD syndrome. Differences between sum scores for the subtests classified as “assets”, versus “deficits” were significantly higher in the IH group as compared with the controls (p < 0. 005). These findings are compatible with a higher frequency of NLD in the IH group, in which neurological confounding factors have been excluded. In addition, the model of the elements and the dynamics of the NLD syndrome may be useful when analyzing neuropsychological test results obtained with traditional and comprehensive test batteries.

Key words

Hydrocephalus/psychology - non-verbal communication - neuropsychological tests

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Knut Dalen

Department of Biological and Medical Psychology
University of Bergen

Jonas Liesvei 91

5009 Bergen

Norway

Email: knut.dalen@psych.uib.no

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