Article

In this study, we explored the integrity of the inferior longitudinal
fasciculus (ILF) by means of diffusion tensor imaging tractography in children
with visual perceptual impairment, and more specifically, object recognition
deficits, compared with typically developing children.
METHODS: Eleven
individuals (nine males, two females; mean age 7 y 8 mo; range 3 y 5 mo-13 y)
were assessed with the L94 visual perceptual battery after assessment of
performance age. In all participants, an ophthalmological evaluation was carried
out. Diffusion tensor imaging tractography of the ILF was performed. The mean
fractional anisotropy was determined for every child and compared with data for
11 age- and sex-matched typically developing children. RESULTS: The mean
fractional anisotropy value in the left ILF was consistently lower in the study
participants than in the comparison group. The five children with L94 impairment
showed a significantly lower ILF fractional anisotropy on the left as well as on
the right side. Furthermore, the decrease in ILF fractional anisotropy was
correlated with the number of impaired subtests. INTERPRETATION: The results
suggest an association between ILF integrity loss and object recognition
deficits. Moreover, the severity of clinical impairment is reflected in the
degree of ILF integrity loss. Therefore, the ILF plays a potential role in object
recognition.
CI - (c) The Authors. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology (c) 2011 Mac Keith
Press.

Langue : ANGLAIS