Published in:
01-04-2021 | Spina Bifida | Original Article
Cognitive and motor function in adults with spina bifida myelomeningocele: a pilot study
Authors:
Joan Mary Jasien, Mohamad A. Mikati, Michaela Kolarova, Brian Smith, Stephanie Thera, Pierre Lee
Published in:
Child's Nervous System
|
Issue 4/2021
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Abstract
Purpose
Determine the feasibility and utility of using a battery of tests utilized, so far, to assess neurological-cognitive functions in the typical adult population and identify the spectrum of these functions in adult SBM patients.
Methods
Prospective study in which 15 participants (mean age = 28.7 ± 8.7 years, range = 19–45 years) completed the targeted battery of tests (n = 5–15/test) previously standardized to the general population. Results were compared with normative data.
Results
Statistically significant differences with normative means were noted in the following tests: Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ), and NIH Toolbox Fine Motor (Dexterity and Grip Strength) tests. Cohort means for NIH Toolbox Fluid, Crystallized, and Cognitive Composite Scores and Timed Up and GO (TUG) were not different from normative means.
Conclusion
All tests were successfully completed by cohort. Whereas many aspects of cognition were normal, tests assessing visual-constructural, calculation, motor, and fluency functions did show differences from population means. Numerous tests assessing multiple domains are needed and can be used in future aging studies to appreciate the spectrum of cognitive and motor abilities in adults with SBM.