Developmental coordination disorder in "apparently normal" schoolchildren born extremely preterm. Issue 4 (6th October 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Goyen, T-A; Lui, K
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 94:Issue 4(2009)
• Page Start: 298
• Page End: 302
• Publication Date: 2008-10-06
• Subjects: Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920005
• DOI: 10.1136/adc.2007.134692
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-9888

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: To determine the prevalence of developmental coordination disorder (DCD) in "apparently normal" extremely premature (<29 weeks) or extremely low birthweight (<1000 g) schoolchildren at 8 years of age and whether motor skill assessments at an earlier age could predict DCD. Method: From a neonatal intensive care unit cohort, 50 of the 53 eligible children (IQ >84 and without disabilities at age 5 and residing in Sydney metropolitan) and full-term classroom controls matched for gender and age were assessed with the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC) at school. Previous Griffith's Scales (1 and 3 years) and Peabody Motor Scales (3 and 5 years) results were evaluated for prediction. Results: The prevalence of DCD (MABC impairment scores >1 SD below the norm) was significantly higher in the study group than controls (42% vs 8%, respectively), and severe DCD (scores >1.5 SD) was also significantly higher (30% vs 0%). DCD was independently associated with prolonged rupture of membranes and retinopathy of prematurity but not with parental education or occupation. Motor assessment using Peabody Fine Motor Scales at 3 years with a cut-off of <27th centile was the best predictor of DCD (areas under curve 78%). Conclusions: Apparently normal high-risk infants are at risk of motor dysfunction into their school years. Most of these could be identified at age 3.