Cognitive profile and neuropsychiatric disorders in Becker muscular dystrophy: A systematic review of literature.

BACKGROUND

Brain co-morbidities in DMD are well-documented, less is known about the cognitive, behavioral and psychosocial functioning of patients with BMD.

METHODS

The systematic review was carried out on two databases (Pubmed and Scopus) according to the PRISMA guidelines. We included all research articles specific to BMD written after 1995.

RESULTS

Studies examining neuropsychological and neurobehavioral functioning in BMD are few and have several methods limitations. BMD population is characterized by high rates of cognitive impairment, with specific involvement of different cognitive areas. Unlike DMD, verbal skills are better preserved. Neurodevelopmental and emotional/behavioral disorders have great importance in BMD, due to their high prevalence. Lack of Dp140 or Dp71 can cause intellectual disability, these isoforms are probably responsible for the other brain-related comorbidities as well.

DISCUSSION: The results suggest that cognitive and neuropsychiatric comorbid symptoms may affect a significant proportion of BMD patients therefore it is important to mental health and neuropsychological screening. Finding tools for an adequate assessment is a priority in order to include brain outcome measures in clinical trials.