A comparison of neurobehavioral performance of healthy term and low-risk preterm infants at term.
The neurobehavioral performance of a group of low-risk preterm and healthy term infants was assessed at term using the standardized Einstein Neonatal Neurobehavioral Assessment Scale. There was greater similarity than dissimilarity between the two groups; however, preterm infants demonstrated less consistent following to face and voice, and less sustained rooting and grasp reflexes. Preterm infants were more likely to have a more sustained asymmetric tonic neck reflex, a greater popliteal angle and evidence of tremor. These results support the view that processing capability appears to mature on an intrinsically programmed time- and environment-independent pathway, with environmental exposure challenging this adaptive capacity and modifying performance--predominantly with respect to reflexive elements.
Majnemer
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School of Physical & Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec.
Brownstein
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Kadanoff
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Shevell
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MI
D001143:Arousal / Q000502:physiology; D001925:Brain Damage, Chronic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007235:Infant, Premature, Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D009048:Motor Skills / Q000502:physiology; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012018:Reflex / Q000502:physiology; D012307:Risk Factors; D014202:Tremor / Q000503:physiopathology