Cognitive executive function in Down's syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
The study investigated executive function in adults with Down's syndrome.


METHODS
Participants with Down's syndrome (N=26) were compared with non-Down syndrome learning disabled participants (N=26).


METHODS
The two group's performance on a range of tests of executive function were compared. Groups were matched on age and a measure of vocabulary.


RESULTS
The Down's syndrome group performed at a significantly lower level on a number of tests of executive function.


CONCLUSIONS
It is suggested that impaired executive function in Down's syndrome is due to abnormal development of the prefrontal cortex in Down's syndrome. Tests of executive function may be sensitive to cognitive changes with the onset of dementia in people with Down's syndrome. Longitudinal studies examining changes in executive function in people with Down's syndrome are recommended.
City and Hackney Teaching Primary Care NHS Trust, and City and East London Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK. john.rowe@chpct.nhs.uk
John
J
Rowe
Anthony
A
Lavender
Vicky
V
Turk
D000328:Adult; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology*; D004314:Down Syndrome / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D017397:Prefrontal Cortex / Q000503:physiopathology; D012720:Severity of Illness Index