Article

Myelomeningocele (MMC) is caused by incomplete neural tube development,
affecting physical, cognitive and adaptive functioning. The aim of this study was
to characterize women and men with problematic psychosocial adaptation with
respect to cognitive functions and psychological symptoms. It was expected that
cognitive functions, especially the executive functions, were mostly impaired. In
addition, the clinical history, the neurological and the psychological
functioning was investigated. METHOD: Twelve participants (six men, six women;
age range 24-41 years) with MMC were recruited from TRS National Resource Centre
for Rare Disorders. Inclusion criteria were (1) uncompleted upper secondary
school, (2) unemployment and (3) lack of social relationships. The participants
underwent a systematic clinical history, a clinical neurological examination, a
neuropsychological assessment and questionnaires regarding cognitive and
psychological functioning. RESULTS: All participants had major neurological
deficits and most of them had hydrocephalus and Chiari-II malformation. Cognitive
deficits were present in a range of domains, especially the executive functions.
The neuropsychological findings showed no obvious difference between men and
women. Symptoms of psychopathology were more pronounced in women. The men were
less capable to structure daily living. CONCLUSIONS: The neuropsychological
findings disclosed that the executive functions were most impaired. Future
research should be directed towards cognitive rehabilitation.

Langue : ANGLAIS