The impact of mild developmental learning difficulties on neuropsychological recovery from head trauma.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the prevalence of mild developmental learning difficulties (MDLD) in a group of patients who had sustained head trauma, to determine the impact on cognitive and neurobehavioural recovery.


METHODS
A case-control design comprised 136 consecutive cases (55 MDLD; 81 control). Information regarding a history of MDLD was obtained during clinical interview, with neurobehavioural problems recorded using a checklist. Neuropsychological assessment and questionnaire measures of anxiety and depression were completed.


RESULTS
Between group cognitive differences were only found on Digit Symbol (p < 0.01) and Trails B (p < 0.05) tests. The MDLD group reported a higher incidence of impulsive aggression and mood swings (both p < 0.01). Adjustment problems in the MDLD group were inferred from higher anxiety and depression ratings (both p < 0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
The MDLD group did not appear to display a more generalized deficit in cognitive functions. However, neurobehavioural problems, plus the incidence and degree of affective changes, suggest greater psychological vulnerability than controls.
Wood
Rodger L L
RL
Department of Psychology, University of Wales Swansea, Swansea, Wales, UK. r.l.wood@swansea.ac.uk
Rutterford
Neil A
NA
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D015600:Glasgow Coma Scale; D016489:Head Injuries, Closed / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests