Predicting neurological disorders in infants with extremely low birth weight using the movement assessment of infants.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to investigate the predictive value of the Movement Assessment of Infants (MAI) in early detection of neurological disorders in infants with extremely low birth weight (ELBW; <1000 g).

METHOD: Thirty-three infants were examined and predictions regarding neurologic status were made at the corrected age of four months using the MAI. Follow-up examinations took place at the corrected age of 12 and 24 months by a pediatric neurologist and a physiotherapist. A neuropsychological assessment using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development was completed at the corrected age of two years.

RESULTS

For predicting cerebral palsy (CP), the sensitivity was 64%; specificity 91%, and the positive and negative predictive values were 78% and 84%, respectively. For minor neurological disorders (MND), the value of sensitivity was 44%, specificity 71%, the positive predictive value was 50%, and the negative predictive value was 67%.

CONCLUSION

The MAI assessment administered at the corrected age of four months is highly specific in predicting CP in the infants with ELBW.