Early cognitive and behavioral problems in children with nodular heterotopia

Adults with periventricular nodular heterotopia (PNH) have epilepsy and dyslexia, but most have normal intelligence. It is not known whether PNH-related reading difficulty can be detected earlier in childhood or whether associated behavioral problems are present. We studied 10 children with PNH, 3 of whom did not have seizures, and 10 matched controls with neuropsychological testing and parental rating instruments at two time points separated by about 1 year. Children with PNH performed significantly worse than controls on a task related to reading fluency. In addition, those with PNH showed significantly worse adaptive skills, and a measure of conduct problems significantly worsened over time. Mood and behavioral problems were reported more commonly, though not significantly so, in children with PNH. These findings demonstrate that reading dysfluency can be evident in children with nodular heterotopia, even in the absence of epilepsy, but also highlight difficulties with behavior in this population.

► Adults with periventricular nodular heterotopia have epilepsy and dyslexia. ► Whether children with this disorder show early cognitive or behavioral signs was studied. ► Neuropsychological testing and parental ratings at two time points were used. ► Children with heterotopia have difficulties with reading fluency, mood, and behavior. ► The findings suggest an opportunity for early identification and intervention.