Neurodevelopmental Outcome of Children With Intrauterine Growth Retardation: A Longitudinal, 10-Year Prospective Study

Abstract

One hundred twenty-three children with intrauterine growth retardation were prospectively followed from birth to 9 to 10 years of age in order to characterize their specific neurodevelopmental and cognitive difficulties and to identify clinical predictors of such difficulties. Perinatal biometric data and risk factors were collected. Outcome was evaluated at age 9 to 10 by neurodevelopmental, cognitive, and school achievement assessments. Sixty-three children served as controls who were appropriate for gestational age. Significant differences in growth ( P < .001), neurodevelopmental scores ( P < .001), intelligence quotient (IQ) ( P < .0001), and school achievements measured by the Kaufmann Assessment Battery for Children ( P < .001) were found between the children with intrauterine growth retardation and controls. Children with intrauterine growth retardation demonstrated a specific profile of neurocognitive difficulties at school age, accounting for lower school achievements. The best perinatal parameter predictive of neurodevelopment and IQ was the Cephalization Index ( P < .001). Somatic catch-up growth at age 2 and at age 9 to 10 correlated with favorable outcome at 9 to 10 years of age.