Cognitive and Adaptive Characterization of Children and Adolescents with KBG Syndrome: An Explorative Study

Abstract

KBG syndrome (KBGS) is a rare Mendelian condition caused by heterozygous mutations in ANKRD11 or microdeletions in chromosome 16q24.3 encompassing the gene. KBGS is clinically variable, which makes its diagnosis difficult in a significant proportion of cases. The present study aims at delineating the cognitive profile and adaptive functioning of children and adolescents with KBGS. Twenty-four Italian KBGS with a confirmed diagnosis by molecular testing of the causative ANKRD11 gene were recruited to define both cognitive profile as measured by the Wechsler Intelligence Scale and adaptive functioning as measured by Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-II Edition or the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-II Edition. Among children and adolescents, 17 showed intellectual disability, six presented borderline intellectual functioning and only one child did not show cognitive defects. Concerning cognitive profile, results revealed significant differences between the four indexes of Wechsler Intelligence Scale. Namely, the verbal comprehension index was significantly higher than the perceptual reasoning index, working memory index and the processing speed index. Concerning adaptive functioning, no difference between the domains was found. In conclusion, in our cohort, a heterogeneous profile has been documented in cognitive profiles, with a spike on verbal comprehension, while a flat-trend has emerged in adaptive functioning. Our cognitive and adaptive characterization drives professionals to set the best clinical supports, capturing the complexity and heterogeneity of this rare condition.