Mid-term neurodevelopmental outcome in isolated mild ventriculomegaly diagnosed in fetal life.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze mid-term neurodevelopment outcome in children with isolated mild ventriculomegaly (VM) ≤12 mm diagnosed in fetal life, using the Battelle Developmental Inventory Screening Test (BDIST).

METHODS

86 cases of mild VM were identified. 68 were excluded due to: other cerebral anomalies (n = 40), extra-cerebral anomalies (n = 3), chromosomal defects (n = 4), dysmorphic syndromes (n = 4), congenital infections (n = 2), termination of pregnancy (n = 9), stillbirth (n = 2) and incomplete follow-up (n = 4). 18 cases (range 1-8 years) of isolated mild VM were included for analysis. Seven neurodevelopment domains were assessed by BDIST.

RESULTS

Routine neuropediatrical evaluation detected neurological disorders in five children (28%; 3 with language impairment, one left hemiparesis and one intellectual retardation). BDIST showed some degree of neurodevelopmental delay in higher proportions: 66% in social-personal skills, 56% in gross motor skills, 39% in adaptive behavior and 28% in fine motor skills. Communicative and cognitive areas were the least affected (11 and 22% had moderate-to-severe involvement, respectively). A general trend towards worse outcomes was observed in the group of ≥4 years, although significant differences were only found for gross motor skills.

CONCLUSION

Subtle neurological delays may appear during the infant period in fetuses prenatally diagnosed of isolated mild VM. In consequence, adequate measures should be established for early detection and treatment.