Potential Role of Cortisol in Social and Memory Impairments in Individuals with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome.
22q11.2 Deletion syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by physiological and psychological symptoms. This study investigated the role of cortisol on the social and cognitive impairments in children with 22q11.2. A total of 11 children with 22q11.2 were assessed for baseline cortisol levels and received broad neuropsychological testing. Results were compared with 11 controls. Children with 22q11.2 had significantly higher cortisol levels. A significant negative correlation was observed between the general memory and attention/concentration indices of the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning, 2nd edition and cortisol concentrations in the control population. These data provide evidence of a possible causal mechanism that underlies social impairments in stress disorders.
Department of Psychology, Eastern Michigan University, Gulfport, Mississippi, United States.
Daniel
D
Jacobson
Department of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States.
Megan
M
Bursch
Department of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States.
Renee
R
Lajiness-O'Neill
22q.11.2 deletion syndrome; cortisol; neurodevelopmental disorder