1
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Aghaei A, Herran K, Fanaei SA, Khalili M, Jayadev P. Lived experiences of neurofibromatosis type 1 patients: Social life, stigma, and intervention strategies. J Health Psychol 2024; 29:811-824. [PMID: 37933158 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231208619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a neurogenetic disorder associated with visual-spatial problems, executive dysfunction, and language deficits, making patients experience social isolation, stigma, anxiety, and depression. Here, we explored NF1 patients' lived experiences by conducting semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 21 NF1 patients and 16 care providers. The thematic analysis uncovered dimensions of NF1 patients' social lives at different ecological levels, including their relationships with family, friends, teachers, coworkers, providers, and society. Positive dimensions of NF1 patients' social life (e.g. familial support and sacrifice, responsibility, and self-sufficiency, supportive friends, and professors) counter negative dimensions (e.g. the vulnerability in sexual relationships, social interactions, discriminatory professors, misconceptions about abilities, appearance bias, internalized and social stigma, violence, and low self-esteem). Adaptive strategies used or suggested by NF1 patients at personal (e.g. supportive network, positive reframing, acceptance of their bodies) and social levels (e.g. psychological support, group therapy, public awareness, and governmental support) were identified.
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2
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Weiss EM, Guhathakurta D, Petrušková A, Hundrup V, Zenker M, Fejtová A. Developmental effect of RASopathy mutations on neuronal network activity on a chip. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1388409. [PMID: 38910965 PMCID: PMC11190344 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1388409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies are a group of genetic disorders caused by mutations in genes encoding components and regulators of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, resulting in overactivation of signaling. RASopathy patients exhibit distinctive facial features, cardiopathies, growth and skeletal abnormalities, and varying degrees of neurocognitive impairments including neurodevelopmental delay, intellectual disabilities, or attention deficits. At present, it is unclear how RASopathy mutations cause neurocognitive impairment and what their neuron-specific cellular and network phenotypes are. Here, we investigated the effect of RASopathy mutations on the establishment and functional maturation of neuronal networks. We isolated cortical neurons from RASopathy mouse models, cultured them on multielectrode arrays and performed longitudinal recordings of spontaneous activity in developing networks as well as recordings of evoked responses in mature neurons. To facilitate the analysis of large and complex data sets resulting from long-term multielectrode recordings, we developed MATLAB-based tools for data processing, analysis, and statistical evaluation. Longitudinal analysis of spontaneous network activity revealed a convergent developmental phenotype in neurons carrying the gain-of-function Noonan syndrome-related mutations Ptpn11 D61Y and Kras V14l. The phenotype was more pronounced at the earlier time points and faded out over time, suggesting the emergence of compensatory mechanisms during network maturation. Nevertheless, persistent differences in excitatory/inhibitory balance and network excitability were observed in mature networks. This study improves the understanding of the complex relationship between genetic mutations and clinical manifestations in RASopathies by adding insights into functional network processes as an additional piece of the puzzle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Debarpan Guhathakurta
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aneta Petrušková
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
| | - Verena Hundrup
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Zenker
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anna Fejtová
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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3
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Pan Y, Hysinger JD, Yalçın B, Lennon JJ, Byun YG, Raghavan P, Schindler NF, Anastasaki C, Chatterjee J, Ni L, Xu H, Malacon K, Jahan SM, Ivec AE, Aghoghovwia BE, Mount CW, Nagaraja S, Scheaffer S, Attardi LD, Gutmann DH, Monje M. Nf1 mutation disrupts activity-dependent oligodendroglial plasticity and motor learning in mice. Nat Neurosci 2024:10.1038/s41593-024-01654-y. [PMID: 38816530 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01654-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Neurogenetic disorders, such as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), can cause cognitive and motor impairments, traditionally attributed to intrinsic neuronal defects such as disruption of synaptic function. Activity-regulated oligodendroglial plasticity also contributes to cognitive and motor functions by tuning neural circuit dynamics. However, the relevance of oligodendroglial plasticity to neurological dysfunction in NF1 is unclear. Here we explore the contribution of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) to pathological features of the NF1 syndrome in mice. Both male and female littermates (4-24 weeks of age) were used equally in this study. We demonstrate that mice with global or OPC-specific Nf1 heterozygosity exhibit defects in activity-dependent oligodendrogenesis and harbor focal OPC hyperdensities with disrupted homeostatic OPC territorial boundaries. These OPC hyperdensities develop in a cell-intrinsic Nf1 mutation-specific manner due to differential PI3K/AKT activation. OPC-specific Nf1 loss impairs oligodendroglial differentiation and abrogates the normal oligodendroglial response to neuronal activity, leading to impaired motor learning performance. Collectively, these findings show that Nf1 mutation delays oligodendroglial development and disrupts activity-dependent OPC function essential for normal motor learning in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Pan
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Jared D Hysinger
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Belgin Yalçın
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James J Lennon
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Youkyeong Gloria Byun
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Preethi Raghavan
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicole F Schindler
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Corina Anastasaki
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jit Chatterjee
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lijun Ni
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Haojun Xu
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Karen Malacon
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Samin M Jahan
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexis E Ivec
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin E Aghoghovwia
- Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher W Mount
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Surya Nagaraja
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Suzanne Scheaffer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Laura D Attardi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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4
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Vernet M, Ducrot S, Chaix Y. A Systematic Review on Visual-Processing Deficits in Neurofibromatosis Type 1: What Possible Impact on Learning to Read? Dev Neuropsychol 2024; 49:111-137. [PMID: 38469855 DOI: 10.1080/87565641.2024.2326151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
This systematic review aimed to examine the possible implication of visual-perceptual, visuo-attentional and oculomotor processing in the reading deficits frequently experienced by children with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), as previously shown in dyslexia. Using PRISMA methodological guidelines, we examined 49 studies; most of these reported visual-processing deficits in this population, raising the importance of directly studying the visuo-perceptual and visuo-attentional processes and eye-movement control involved in the learning-to-read process in NF1. The discussion provides a reflection for a better understanding of how visual-processing skills interact with reading deficits in NF1, as well as new avenues for their screening and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Vernet
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LPL, Aix-en-Provence, France
- Centre de jour enfants, Centre hospitalier de Digne-les-Bains, Digne-les-Bains, France
- TONIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Yves Chaix
- TONIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France
- Neuropediatric Department, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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5
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Maier A, Pride NA, Hearps SJC, Shah N, Porter M, North KN, Payne JM. Neuropsychological factors associated with performance on the rey-osterrieth complex figure test in children with neurofibromatosis type 1. Child Neuropsychol 2024; 30:348-359. [PMID: 37038321 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2023.2199975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are at considerable risk for cognitive difficulties, including visuospatial deficits and executive dysfunction. This study aimed to (1) assess the overall performance of children with NF1 on the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (RCFT) compared to unaffected siblings and (2) examine neuropsychological predictors of RCFT performance in children with NF1. A retrospective clinical audit was performed on neuropsychological records from a multidisciplinary NF1 Clinic in Australia. We searched for children that had completed an assessment between 2000 and 2015 which included the RCFT and other neuropsychological outcomes in this study. These included the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Judgment of Line Orientation (JLO), Tower of London test, Conners ADHD Scales, and the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). The study population consisted of 191 children with NF1 aged 6-16 years, and 55 unaffected siblings recruited from a separate study. Results revealed that 62% of children with NF1 performed at or below the first percentile on the RCFT copy, which was significantly worse than their unaffected siblings. Visuospatial skills, parent-rated executive abilities, ADHD symptoms, and intellectual skills all predicted poorer performance on the RCFT copy, however the best fitting multiple regression model only contained the JLO, BRIEF Metacognition Index, and chronological age. The JLO emerged as the strongest predictor of RCFT performance. This study provides evidence that visuospatial deficits are a key driver of reduced RCFT performance in NF1 and that executive skills as well as a younger age are also independent predictors of RCFT performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Maier
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Natalie A Pride
- Kids Neuroscience Centre, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephen J C Hearps
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Critical Care, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nijashree Shah
- School of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Melanie Porter
- School of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kathryn N North
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Payne
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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6
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Di Stasi M, Cocozza S, Buccino S, Paolella C, Di Napoli L, D'Amico A, Melis D, Ugga L, Villano G, Ruocco M, Scala I, Brunetti A, Elefante A. The role of unidentified bright objects in the neurocognitive profile of neurofibromatosis type 1 children: a volumetric MRI analysis. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:223-230. [PMID: 37733157 PMCID: PMC10874314 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-023-02381-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cognitive impairment is described in 80% of Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) patients. Brain focal areas of T2w increased signal intensity on MRI, the so-called Unidentified Bright Objects (UBOs) have been hypothesized to be related to cognitive dysfunction, although conflicting results are available in literature. Here, we investigated the possible relation between UBOs' volume, cognitive impairment, and language disability in NF1 patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this retrospective study, clinical and MRI data of 21 NF1 patients (M/F = 12/9; mean age 10.1 ± 4.5) were evaluated. Brain intellectual functioning and language abilities were assessed with specific scales, while the analyzed MRI sequences included axial 2D-T2-weighted and FLAIR sequences. These images were used independently for UBOs segmentation with a semiautomatic approach and obtained volumes were normalized for biparietal diameters to take into account for brain volume. Possible differences in terms of normalized UBOs volumes were probed between cognitively affected and preserved patients, as well as between subjects with or without language impairment. RESULTS Patients cognitively affected were not different in terms of UBOs volume compared to those preserved (p = 0.35 and p = 0.30, for T2-weighted and FLAIR images, respectively). Similarly, no differences were found between patients with and without language impairment (p = 0.47 and p = 0.40, for the two sequences). CONCLUSIONS The relation between UBOs and cognition in children with NF1 has been already investigated in literature, although leading to conflicting results. Our study expands the current knowledge, showing a lack of correlation between UBOs volume and both cognitive impairment and language disability in NF1 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Di Stasi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi di Aragona", Salerno, Italy
| | - Sirio Cocozza
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Sara Buccino
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Paolella
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Linda Di Napoli
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Melis
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ugga
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianmichele Villano
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Manuel Ruocco
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Iris Scala
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Arturo Brunetti
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Elefante
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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7
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Kallionpää RA, Johansson E, Böckerman P, Peltonen J, Peltonen S. The contribution of morbidity and unemployment for the reduced labor market participation of individuals with neurofibromatosis 1 in Finland. Eur J Hum Genet 2024; 32:83-90. [PMID: 37460655 PMCID: PMC10772102 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-023-01426-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a multisystem disorder associated with, for example, a high risk for cancer, a variety of behavioral and cognitive deficits, low educational attainment and decreased income. We now examined the labor market participation of individuals with NF1. We analyzed the numbers of days of work, unemployment, and sickness allowance among 742 Finnish individuals with NF1 aged 20-59 years using nationwide register data from Statistics Finland and the Social Insurance Institution of Finland. The individuals with NF1 were compared with a control cohort of 8716 individuals matched with age, sex, and the area of residence. Individuals with NF1 had a significantly lower number of working days per year than the controls (rate ratio [RR] 0.93, 95% CI 0.91-0.95). Unemployment (RR 1.79, 95% CI 1.58-2.02), and sickness absence (RR 1.44, 95% CI 1.25-1.67) were more frequent in the NF1 than in the control group. The causes of sickness allowances were highly concordant with the previously reported morbidity profile of NF1 including neoplasms, cardiovascular disease, mental and behavioral diseases, and neurological diseases. In conclusion, NF1 significantly interferes with labor market participation via both unemployment and morbidity. Unemployment seems to cause more days of not working than sickness absence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roope A Kallionpää
- Cancer Research Unit and FICAN West Cancer Centre, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Edvard Johansson
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Business, and Economics, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Petri Böckerman
- Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Labour Institute for Economic Research LABORE, Helsinki, Finland
- IZA Institute of Labor Economics, Bonn, Germany
| | - Juha Peltonen
- Cancer Research Unit and FICAN West Cancer Centre, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
| | - Sirkku Peltonen
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Dermatology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Skin and Allergy Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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8
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de Blank P, Nishiyama A, López-Juárez A. A new era for myelin research in Neurofibromatosis type 1. Glia 2023; 71:2701-2719. [PMID: 37382486 PMCID: PMC10592420 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Evidence for myelin regulating higher-order brain function and disease is rapidly accumulating; however, defining cellular/molecular mechanisms remains challenging partially due to the dynamic brain physiology involving deep changes during development, aging, and in response to learning and disease. Furthermore, as the etiology of most neurological conditions remains obscure, most research models focus on mimicking symptoms, which limits understanding of their molecular onset and progression. Studying diseases caused by single gene mutations represents an opportunity to understand brain dys/function, including those regulated by myelin. Here, we discuss known and potential repercussions of abnormal central myelin on the neuropathophysiology of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1). Most patients with this monogenic disease present with neurological symptoms diverse in kind, severity, and onset/decline, including learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, motor coordination issues, and increased risk for depression and dementia. Coincidentally, most NF1 patients show diverse white matter/myelin abnormalities. Although myelin-behavior links were proposed decades ago, no solid data can prove or refute this idea yet. A recent upsurge in myelin biology understanding and research/therapeutic tools provides opportunities to address this debate. As precision medicine moves forward, an integrative understanding of all cell types disrupted in neurological conditions becomes a priority. Hence, this review aims to serve as a bridge between fundamental cellular/molecular myelin biology and clinical research in NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter de Blank
- Department of Pediatrics, The Cure Starts Now Brain Tumor Center, University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Akiko Nishiyama
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
| | - Alejandro López-Juárez
- Department of Health and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, Texas, USA
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9
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Kenborg L, Frederiksen LE, Galanakis M, Doser K, Nielsen TT, Doherty MA, Hove H, Østergaard JR, Handrup MM, Ejerskov C, Mulvihill JJ, Winther JF. Employment, occupation, and income in adults with neurofibromatosis 1 in Denmark: a population- and register-based cohort study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:346. [PMID: 37932779 PMCID: PMC10629102 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02965-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about employment status, occupation, and disposable income in adults with NF1. METHODS From the Danish National Patient Registry and database of two national Centers for Rare Diseases, we identified 1469 adults with NF1, who were matched to 11,991 randomly selected population comparisons on sex and birth year and month. Annual information on employment, occupation and disposable income was ascertained from national registries in 1980-2019. RESULTS Adults with NF1 had a lower odds ratio (OR) for employment [OR 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61-0.83] and higher OR for health-related unemployment (OR 2.94, 95% CI 2.16-3.96) at age 30 years than population comparisons, which persisted at age 40 and 50 years. Somatic diagnoses were associated with a higher OR for health-related unemployment in adults with NF1 than in the population comparisons. Adults with NF1 had a slightly lower disposable income, with a 14% (0.82-0.89) reduction observed among the youngest birth cohort. Furthermore, adults with NF1 were less likely to be in a high skilled occupation at ages 30, 40 and 50 years. CONCLUSION Adults with NF1 have a lower employment rate, which was mainly due to health-related reasons and a slightly lower disposable income than adults without NF1. Thus, anticipation guidance for employment should be part of the management of NF1 families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Kenborg
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Line E Frederiksen
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Galanakis
- Statistics and Data Analysis, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karoline Doser
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas T Nielsen
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mia Aagaard Doherty
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Hove
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Rare Diseases, University Hospital at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The RAREDIS Database, Center for Rare Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital and Aarhus University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John R Østergaard
- Center for Rare Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette M Handrup
- Center for Rare Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Ejerskov
- Center for Rare Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - John J Mulvihill
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jeanette F Winther
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Institute, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University and University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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10
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Doherty AC, Huddleston DA, Horn PS, Ratner N, Simpson BN, Schorry EK, Aschbacher-Smith L, Prada CE, Gilbert DL. Motor Function and Physiology in Youth With Neurofibromatosis Type 1. Pediatr Neurol 2023; 143:34-43. [PMID: 36996759 PMCID: PMC10228140 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic neurocutaneous disorder commonly associated with motor and cognitive symptoms that greatly impact quality of life. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can quantify motor cortex physiology, reflecting the basis for impaired motor function as well as, possibly, clues for mechanisms of effective treatment. We hypothesized that children with NF1 have impaired motor function and altered motor cortex physiology compared to typically developing (TD) control children and children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS Children aged 8-17 years with NF1 (n = 21) were compared to children aged 8-12 years with ADHD (n = 59) and TD controls (n = 88). Motor development was assessed using the Physical and Neurological Examination for Subtle Signs (PANESS) scale. The balance of inhibition and excitation in motor cortex was assessed using the TMS measures short-interval cortical inhibition (SICI) and intracortical facilitation (ICF). Measures were compared by diagnosis and tested using bivariate correlations and regression for association with clinical characteristics. RESULTS In NF1, ADHD severity scores were intermediate between the ADHD and TD cohorts, but total PANESS scores were markedly elevated (worse) compared to both (P < 0.001). Motor cortex ICF (excitatory) was significantly lower in NF1 than in TD and ADHD (P < 0.001), but SICI (inhibitory) did not differ. However, in NF1, better PANESS scores correlated with lower SICI ratios (more inhibition; ρ = 0.62, P = 0.003) and lower ICF ratios (less excitation; ρ = 0.38, P = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS TMS-evoked SICI and ICF may reflect processes underlying abnormal motor function in children with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander C Doherty
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | - David A Huddleston
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Paul S Horn
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology - Rasopathy Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Brittany N Simpson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Elizabeth K Schorry
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Carlos E Prada
- Division of Genetics, Ann & Robert Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Donald L Gilbert
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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11
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Castricum J, Tulen JHM, Taal W, Pel JJM, Elgersma Y. Visual-spatial and visuomotor functioning in adults with neurofibromatosis type 1. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2023; 67:362-374. [PMID: 36625000 DOI: 10.1111/jir.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a neurodevelopmental genetic disorder associated with visual-spatial and visuomotor deficits, which have not been studied well in adults with NF1. METHODS In 22 adults with NF1 and 31 controls, visuomotor functioning was assessed by measuring eye latency, hand latency and hand accuracy during visuomotor tasks. Visual-spatial functioning was assessed by measuring eye movement responses during the Visual Threshold Task. RESULTS The NF1 group had a significantly shorter eye latency than the control group and was less accurate in their hand movements during specific visuomotor tasks. The groups showed no differences in eye movement responses during the Visual Threshold Task and in hand latency during the visuomotor tasks. CONCLUSIONS In contrast to studies in children with NF1, we found no alterations in visual-spatial information processing in adults. Impairments in eye latency and hand accuracy during specific visuomotor tasks may indicate deficits in visuomotor functioning in adults with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Castricum
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J H M Tulen
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W Taal
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology/Neuro-oncology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J J M Pel
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Y Elgersma
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology/Neuro-oncology, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Maziero S, Jucla M, Blais M, Albaret JM, Tallet J, Chaix Y. A preliminary study of the different memory systems in neurofibromatosis type 1: What is impaired and what is spared? Brain Dev 2023; 45:220-230. [PMID: 36609051 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since 1990's, the cognitive profile of children with a neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) has been refined by many different studies. Children with NF1 may exhibit a variety of cognitive dysfunctions. Memory difficulties have been reported, but the results are contradictory and, compared to other cognitive functions, memory has been less evaluated. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the memory profile in NF1 with a particular population, children with NF1 without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS Eighteen children with NF1 without ADHD and eighteen typically developing aged from 8 to 12.6 years were compared in terms of both their verbal and visual working memory, anterograde memory, and procedural perceptual-motor memory. We also assessed semantic and autobiographical memory. RESULTS Our results indicate the existence of memory difficulties in children with NF1 without ADHD in verbal working and anterograde memory but not in terms of the visual domain. They also experienced difficulties recalling personal memories but these were improved by cueing. However, semantic memory and procedural perceptual-motor memory was preserved. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight a difference between memory systems in children with NF1 without ADHD and the importance to assess the different memory systems, the nature of information and the processes in long-term memory in NF1 population. However, our results raise questions about the possible links between these difficulties and the executive functions. The specifics of memory profile in children with NF1 must be taken into consideration in these children's clinical follow-up, in order to understand their learning difficulties and to make adaptations to their care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Maziero
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; Laboratory of NeuroPsychoLinguistics, University of Toulouse, France.
| | - Mélanie Jucla
- Laboratory of NeuroPsychoLinguistics, University of Toulouse, France
| | - Mélody Blais
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France
| | - Jean-Michel Albaret
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France
| | - Jessica Tallet
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France
| | - Yves Chaix
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France
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13
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Vernet M, Bellocchi S, Danna J, Massendari D, Jover M, Chaix Y, Ducrot S. The determinants of saccade targeting strategy in neurodevelopmental disorders: The influence of suboptimal reading experience. Vision Res 2023; 204:108162. [PMID: 36565661 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2022.108162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Whether eye-movements deficits are causal in reading disorders (RD) or rather a consequence of linguistic processing difficulty experienced by disabled readers has been extensively debated.Since RD are frequently comorbid with the Neurofibromatosis type1 (NF1), children with NF1 were used as a comparison group for children with dyslexia in this study.Eye movements were recorded while 21 dyslexic, 20 NF1, and 20 typically developing children performed an oculomotor lateralized bisection task. In this experiment, we manipulated the type of stimulus - discrete (words and strings of hashes) versus continuous (solid lines) - and the visual field where the stimulus was displayed (left vs right). The results showed that (1) only proficient readers (TD and NF1 without RD) showed fully developed oculomotor mechanisms for efficient reading, with a clear preferred viewing location located to the left of the word's centre in both visual fields, and fine-tuned saccade targeting guided by the between-character space information and (2) NF1 poor readers mirrored the dyslexic eye movement behaviour, with less accuracy and more variability in saccadic programming, no sensitivity to the discreteness of the stimuli, particularly in the left visual field. We concluded that disruption to oculomotor behaviour reflectsthe fact that many of the processes involved in reading are not yet automatized for children with RD, independently of NF1. This suggests that the differences in saccade targeting strategy between children with and without RD would be secondary consequences of their reduced reading experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Vernet
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LPL, Aix-en-Provence, France; CLLE, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.
| | - Stéphanie Bellocchi
- Univ. Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, EPSYLON UR 4556, F34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Jérémy Danna
- CLLE, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France
| | | | | | - Yves Chaix
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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14
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Lalancette E, Charlebois-Poirier AR, Agbogba K, Knoth IS, Jones EJH, Mason L, Perreault S, Lippé S. Steady-state visual evoked potentials in children with neurofibromatosis type 1: associations with behavioral rating scales and impact of psychostimulant medication. J Neurodev Disord 2022; 14:42. [PMID: 35869419 PMCID: PMC9306184 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-022-09452-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder often associated with cognitive dysfunctions, including a high occurrence of deficits in visuoperceptual skills. The neural underpinnings of these visuoperceptual deficits are not fully understood. We used steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) to investigate possible alterations in the synchronization of neural activity in the occipital cortex of children with NF1. Methods SSVEPs were measured using electroencephalography and compared between children with NF1 (n = 28) and neurotypical controls (n = 28) aged between 4 and 13 years old. SSVEPs were recorded during visual stimulation with coloured icons flickering at three different frequencies (6 Hz, 10 Hz, and 15 Hz) and analyzed in terms of signal-to-noise ratios. A mixed design ANCOVA was performed to compare SSVEP responses between groups at the three stimulation frequencies. Pearson’s correlations with levels of intellectual functioning as well as with symptoms of ADHD, ASD and emotional/behavioral problems were performed. The impact of psychostimulant medication on the SSVEP responses was analyzed in a subset of the NF1 group (n = 8) with paired t-tests. Results We observed reduced signal-to-noise ratios of the SSVEP responses in children with NF1. The SSVEP responses were negatively correlated with symptoms of inattention and with symptoms of emotional/behavioral problems in the NF1 group. The SSVEP response generated by the lowest stimulation frequency (i.e., 6 Hz) was rescued with the intake of psychostimulant medication. Conclusions Impaired processing of rhythmic visual stimulation was evidenced in children with NF1 through measures of SSVEP responses. Those responses seem to be more reduced in children with NF1 who exhibit more symptoms of inattention and emotional/behavioral problems in their daily life. SSVEPs are potentially sensitive electrophysiological markers that could be included in future studies investigating the impact of medication on brain activity and cognitive functioning in children with NF1. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s11689-022-09452-y.
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15
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Doser K, Belmonte F, Andersen KK, Østergaard JR, Hove H, Handrup MM, Ejerskov C, Mulvihill JJ, Winther JF, Kenborg L. School performance of children with neurofibromatosis 1: a nationwide population-based study. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 30:1405-1412. [PMID: 35859011 PMCID: PMC9712673 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01149-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Children with neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) may have a high burden of somatic disease and cognitive impairments, which can lead to poor academic performance. We evaluated school grades from exams ending mandatory schooling (usually around age 15 or 16 years) of children with NF1 in a population-based registry study using a within-school matched design. The study included 285 children with NF1 and 12,000 NF1-free peers who graduated from the same school and year during 2002-2015. We estimated overall and gender-specific grades by subject and compared the grades of children with NF1 with those of NF1-free peers in linear regression models. We also examined the effect of social and socioeconomic factors (immigration status and parental education, income and civil status) on grades and age at finalizing ninth grade. School grades varied considerably by socioeconomic stratum for all children; however, children with NF1 had lower grades by an average of 11-12% points in all subjects. In the adjusted models, children with NF1 had significantly lower grades than their NF1-free peers, with largest negative differences in grades observed for girls with NF1. Finally, children with NF1 were 0.2 (CI 0.1-0.2) years older than their peers on graduating from ninth grade, but only maternal educational modified the age at graduating. In conclusion, students with NF1 perform more poorly than their peers in all major school subjects. Gender had a strong effect on the association between NF1 and school grades; however, socioeconomic factors had a similar effect on grades for children with NF1 and their peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karoline Doser
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Federica Belmonte
- Statistics and Data Analysis, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Klaus Kaae Andersen
- Statistics and Data Analysis, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John R Østergaard
- Center for Rare Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hanne Hove
- The RAREDIS Database, Center for Rare Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette M Handrup
- Center for Rare Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Ejerskov
- Center for Rare Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - John J Mulvihill
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jeanette F Winther
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University and University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Line Kenborg
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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16
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Virtual Reality Water Maze Navigation in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Reading Disability: an Exploratory Study. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40817-022-00132-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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17
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Catsman-Berrevoets CE. Visual processing difficulties in children with NF1. A common but not widely recognized underlying cause of reading difficulties. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2022; 38:A2. [PMID: 35490035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2022.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Coriene E Catsman-Berrevoets
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Erasmus Medical Center/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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18
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Loucas C, Wolters P, Toledo-Tamula MA, Rhodes A, Baldwin A, Goodwin A, Widemann B, Martin S. Verbal learning and memory in youth with neurofibromatosis type 1 and plexiform neurofibromas: Relationships with disease severity. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2022; 38:7-12. [PMID: 35334353 PMCID: PMC10575344 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2022.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM To provide a comprehensive characterization of verbal learning and memory (VLM) abilities in youth with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and plexiform neurofibromas (PNs) and to evaluate disease severity as a predictor of VLM functioning over time. METHOD As part of a longitudinal natural history study, youth with NF1 and PNs were administered repeat neuropsychological assessments, including measures of VLM and ratings of NF1 disease severity completed by a medical professional. This sub-study analyzed data from 89 patients (M age baseline = 13.1, SD = 4.3 years, range 6-24 years) who had completed tests of VLM abilities and verbal attention at either baseline and/or 36 months. RESULTS VLM scores across the sample fell predominantly within the average range of functioning at both time points. However, relative to peers with mild NF1 disease severity, youth with moderate/severe NF1 disease showed lower functioning across multiple VLM domains at 36 months, even after controlling for the effects of verbal attention. INTERPRETATION Exclusive use of overall domain scores does not fully characterize VLM functioning in youth with NF1 and PNs. Additionally, children and adolescents with more severe NF1 disease should be monitored more closely for verbal memory challenges and targeted for interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Loucas
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Pamela Wolters
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Mary Anne Toledo-Tamula
- Clinical Research Directorate (CRD), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, United States
| | - Amanda Rhodes
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Andrea Baldwin
- Clinical Research Directorate (CRD), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, United States
| | - Anne Goodwin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Brigitte Widemann
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Staci Martin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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19
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Castricum J, Tulen JHM, Taal W, Rietman AB, Elgersma Y. Attention and Motor Learning in Adult Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1. J Atten Disord 2022; 26:563-572. [PMID: 33978520 PMCID: PMC8987013 DOI: 10.1177/10870547211012035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that is associated with cognitive disabilities, including attention and motor learning problems. These disabilities have been extensively studied in children with NF1 but limited studies have been performed in adults. METHOD Attention, motor learning and intellectual performance were studied with neuropsychological tasks in 32 adults with NF1 and 32 controls. RESULTS The NF1 and control group performed similarly on attention and motor learning tasks, although controls had shorter reaction times than adults with NF1 during the motor learning task (t[60] = -2.20, p = .03). Measures of attention or motor learning were not significantly associated with reduced intellectual performance in NF1. CONCLUSION In contrast to many studies in children with NF1, our findings did not provide evidence for presence of attention or motor learning problems in adults with NF1 in neuropsychological tasks. Our observations may be of clinical importance to determine treatment focus in adults with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesminne Castricum
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joke H. M. Tulen
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Walter Taal
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - André B. Rietman
- The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands,Erasmus University Medical Center Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ype Elgersma
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands,Ype Elgersma, Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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20
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Johansson E, Kallionpää RA, Böckerman P, Peltonen S, Peltonen J. The rare disease neurofibromatosis 1 as a source of hereditary economic inequality: Evidence from Finland. Genet Med 2021; 24:870-879. [PMID: 34955382 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2021.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated whether individuals with neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) fare worse than individuals without NF1 in terms of economic well-being. NF1 is relatively common in the population and provides an informative case of a rare hereditary disease. METHODS We examined a subset of 692 individuals with verified NF1 from the Finnish total population-based NF1 cohort and compared that with 7407 control individuals matched for age, sex, and municipality during 1997-2014. Economic well-being was operationalized with annual work earnings and total income, including social income transfers. RESULTS NF1 significantly worsened economic well-being. Low education, increased morbidity, and reduced labor market participation partly explained the effect of NF1. Yet, NF1 was independently associated with lower income even after adjusting for these factors. Furthermore, NF1 had a larger negative effect on income from work than it had on total income, which indicated that the Finnish social security system partly compensated the labor market losses suffered by individuals with NF1. NF1 had a larger impact on economic inequality for men than for women. CONCLUSION NF1 contributes to economic inequality. A hereditary disease may convey worse economic well-being over several generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edvard Johansson
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Business, and Economics, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Roope A Kallionpää
- Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Petri Böckerman
- Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland; Labour Institute for Economic Research, Helsinki, Finland; IZA Institute of Labor Economics, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sirkku Peltonen
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Dermatology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Juha Peltonen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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21
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Wang W, Wei CJ, Cui XW, Li YH, Gu YH, Gu B, Li QF, Wang ZC. Impacts of NF1 Gene Mutations and Genetic Modifiers in Neurofibromatosis Type 1. Front Neurol 2021; 12:704639. [PMID: 34566848 PMCID: PMC8455870 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.704639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a tumor predisposition genetic disorder that directly affects more than 1 in 3,000 individuals worldwide. It results from mutations of the NF1 gene and shows almost complete penetrance. NF1 patients show high phenotypic variabilities, including cafe-au-lait macules, freckling, or other neoplastic or non-neoplastic features. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of the diversities of clinical symptoms might contribute to the development of personalized healthcare for NF1 patients. Currently, studies have shown that the different types of mutations in the NF1 gene might correlate with this phenomenon. In addition, genetic modifiers are responsible for the different clinical features. In this review, we summarize different genetic mutations of the NF1 gene and related genetic modifiers. More importantly, we focus on the genotype–phenotype correlation. This review suggests a novel aspect to explain the underlying mechanisms of phenotypic heterogeneity of NF1 and provides suggestions for possible novel therapeutic targets to prevent or delay the onset and development of different manifestations of NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng-Jiang Wei
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi-Wei Cui
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue-Hua Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Hui Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Gu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Feng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Chao Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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22
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Germanidis EI, Schulz R, Quandt F, Mautner VF, Gerloff C, Timmermann JE. Intact procedural learning and motor intracortical inhibition in adult neurofibromatosis type 1 gene carriers. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:2037-2045. [PMID: 34284238 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)1 is known to cause learning deficits in affected individuals. There has been evidence linking altered gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)2 mediated inhibition to learning impairments in rodent models and humans with NF1. Still, evidence on the role of GABA in learning deficits associated with NF1 is inconclusive. METHODS We examined procedural learning and motor cortex excitability through intracortical facilitation and short interval intracortical inhibition and its activity dependent modulation while performing a procedural sequence learning task in 16 asymptomatic NF1 gene carriers. We aimed to analyze potential brain-behavior correlations in a carefully selected sample of gene carriers in order to minimize confounding factors. RESULTS Gene carriers did not differ from healthy controls when learning the task with their non-dominant hand over three days of training. Electrophysiological data did not reveal alterations in patients' inhibitory function of the motor cortex. CONCLUSIONS In contrast with previous publications reporting various cognitive deficits in clinically asymptomatic individuals with NF1, here asymptomatic gene carriers did not show major neuropsychological or behavioral abnormalities. SIGNIFICANCE Our results support the concept that gene carriers may not always be impaired by the condition and the population of individuals with NF1 most likely comprises different subgroups according to patients' phenotype severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirene I Germanidis
- Experimental Electrophysiology and Neuroimaging (xENi) Laboratory, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robert Schulz
- Experimental Electrophysiology and Neuroimaging (xENi) Laboratory, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fanny Quandt
- Experimental Electrophysiology and Neuroimaging (xENi) Laboratory, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Victor F Mautner
- Section for Neurofibromatosis, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Gerloff
- Experimental Electrophysiology and Neuroimaging (xENi) Laboratory, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan E Timmermann
- Experimental Electrophysiology and Neuroimaging (xENi) Laboratory, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Leppich K, Schneider J, Kaindl AM, Eismann C, Ryczek M, Potratz C. Psychosocial and Socioeconomic Factors in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1731393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe aim of this study is to analyze whether children with familial and sporadic neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) differ in psychosocial and socioeconomic aspects such as developmental delay as well as in comorbidities. Medical records of 250 children with NF1 at a median age of 10.6 years (range = 2–20 years at time of data collection) were retrospectively reviewed. Specifically, psychosocial and socioeconomic factors from 88 children with a family history for NF1 and 162 sporadic cases were compared. Comparing IQ, familial cases scored significantly lower than sporadic cases (89.8 vs. 96.5; p = 0.015). IQ scores of children with familial and sporadic NF1 differ depending on level of parental education (mean IQ for high education 101.3 [familial] and 102.8 [sporadic] vs. low education 87.5 [familial] and 90.4 [sporadic]; p < 0.001). No significant differences were found regarding the presence of developmental delay, learning disorders, autism spectrum disorder, or attention deficit hyperactivity disease. Children with inherited NF1 had a significantly lower IQ than sporadic cases. Children with familial NF1 more often had parents with a lower level of education, highlighting a possible impact of NF1 through generations. Also, the present study confirmed previous results in literature regarding high frequencies of learning disabilities, autism spectrum disease, and attention deficits in children with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katalin Leppich
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Chronically Sick Children, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joanna Schneider
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Chronically Sick Children, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Angela M. Kaindl
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Chronically Sick Children, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Cell and Neurobiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Caroline Eismann
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Chronically Sick Children, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Monika Ryczek
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Chronically Sick Children, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cornelia Potratz
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center for Chronically Sick Children, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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24
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Biotteau M, Tournay E, Baudou E, Destarac S, Iannuzzi S, Faure-Marie N, Castelnau P, Schweitzer E, Rodriguez D, Kemlin I, Dorison N, Rivier F, Carneiro M, Preclaire E, Barbarot S, Lauwers-Cancès V, Chaix Y. Reading Comprehension Impairment in Children With Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1): The Need of Multimodal Assessment of Attention. J Child Neurol 2021; 36:625-634. [PMID: 33507832 DOI: 10.1177/0883073820981270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Attention span, which has been shown to have an impact on reading quality in many other conditions, is one of the main cognitive disorders of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). The aim of this work is to observe the impact of attention on reading comprehension, in NF1 and non-NF1 children. A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 children (8-12 years old) with or without NF1 (75 NF1 vs 75 non-NF1; 72 female, 78 male), matched for age, sex, handedness, and reading level, thus forming a continuum from good to poor readers in both NF1 and non-NF1 groups. Children with intellectual deficiency or neurologic or psychiatric disorder were excluded. Attentional skills were assessed by combining a parent questionnaire (Child Behavior CheckList) and a performance-based assessment (Conner's Continuous Performance Test-Second Edition). Reading comprehension was assessed through a standardized reading comprehension test (ORLEC Lobrot). The performance-based attention scores were associated with text and sentence comprehension ability (P = .0235 and P = .0164, respectively), while indirect questionnaire attention scores were only associated with sentence comprehension (P = .0263). For both groups, the correlations between questionnaire and performance-based measures were low. We have shown that reading comprehension is greatly influenced by attention in NF1 and non-NF1, even if predictors of good reading comprehension also include IQ score and reading accuracy. Indirect observer-rated questionnaires and direct performance-based measures of attention do not assess the same variables, are linked to different components of reading skills, and are not interchangeable assessments of attention difficulties. Both assessments are complementary and must be used simultaneously, leading to recommendations that support multimodal assessment of attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëlle Biotteau
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, 27102Inserm, UPS, France.,Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Elodie Tournay
- Epidemiology Department, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Eloise Baudou
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, 27102Inserm, UPS, France.,Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Sandrine Destarac
- Pediatric Clinical Research Unit, Toulouse Clinical Investigation Center, Children's Hospital, Purpan University Hospital, Inserm U1436, Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphanie Iannuzzi
- Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Pierre Castelnau
- Pediatric Neurology, Clocheville Children's Hospital, Tours University Hospital, Tours, France.,UMR 1253, iBrain, University fo Tours, 27102Inserm, Tours, France.,School of Medicine, University of Tours Francois Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Elisabeth Schweitzer
- Pediatric Neurology, Clocheville Children's Hospital, Tours University Hospital, Tours, France
| | - Diana Rodriguez
- Sorbonne University, APHP.SU, Department of Neuropediatry & Reference Center for Neurogenetics Disabilities, Armand Trousseau University Hospital, Paris, France.,Inserm U1141, FHU I2-D2, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Kemlin
- Sorbonne University, APHP.SU, Department of Neuropediatry & Reference Center for Neurogenetics Disabilities, Armand Trousseau University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Dorison
- Sorbonne University, APHP.SU, Department of Neuropediatry & Reference Center for Neurogenetics Disabilities, Armand Trousseau University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - François Rivier
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Montpellier University Hospital, PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, Inserm, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Maryline Carneiro
- Department of Pediatric Neurology & Reference Center for Language Disabilities, Montpellier University Hospital, France
| | - Elodie Preclaire
- Department of Pediatric Neurology & Reference Center for Language Disabilities, Montpellier University Hospital, France
| | | | | | - Yves Chaix
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, 27102Inserm, UPS, France.,Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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25
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Stavinoha PL, Solesbee C, Swearer SM, Svoboda S, Klesse LJ, Holland AA. Risk Factors for Bullying Victimization in Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1). CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8020145. [PMID: 33671872 PMCID: PMC7918951 DOI: 10.3390/children8020145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal disorder associated with numerous physical stigmata. Children with NF1 are at known risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), academic struggles, and significant social difficulties and adverse social outcomes, including bullying victimization. The primary aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with bullying victimization in children with NF1 to better inform clinicians regarding targets for prevention and clinical intervention. Children and a parent completed questionnaires assessing the bully victim status, and parents completed a measure of ADHD symptoms. Analyses were completed separately for parent-reported victimization of the child and the child’s self-report of victimization. According to the parent report, results suggest ADHD symptoms are a significant risk factor for these children being a target of bullying. Findings for academic disability were not conclusive, nor were findings related to having a parent with NF1. Findings indicate the need for further research into possible risk factors for social victimization in children with NF1. Results provide preliminary evidence that may guide clinicians working with children with NF1 and their parents in identifying higher-risk profiles that may warrant earlier and more intensive intervention to mitigate later risk for bullying victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L. Stavinoha
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-713-794-4066
| | - Cody Solesbee
- College of Education and Human Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68508, USA; (C.S.); (S.M.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Susan M. Swearer
- College of Education and Human Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68508, USA; (C.S.); (S.M.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Steven Svoboda
- College of Education and Human Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68508, USA; (C.S.); (S.M.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Laura J. Klesse
- Department of Psychiatry (AAH), Department of Neurology (LJK), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Children’s Medical Center Dallas, Dallas, TX 75235, USA; (L.J.K.); (A.A.H.)
| | - Alice Ann Holland
- Department of Psychiatry (AAH), Department of Neurology (LJK), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Children’s Medical Center Dallas, Dallas, TX 75235, USA; (L.J.K.); (A.A.H.)
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26
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Johansson E, Kallionpää RA, Böckerman P, Peltonen J, Peltonen S. A rare disease and education: Neurofibromatosis type 1 decreases educational attainment. Clin Genet 2021; 99:529-539. [PMID: 33368180 PMCID: PMC8247857 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Rare heritable syndromes may affect educational attainment. Here, we study education in neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) that is associated with multifaceted medical, social and cognitive consequences. Educational attainment in the Finnish population‐based cohort of 1408 individuals with verified NF1 was compared with matched controls using Cox proportional hazards model with delayed entry and competing risk for death. Moreover, models accounting for the effects of cancer at age 15–30 years, parental NF1 and developmental disorders were constructed. Overall, the attainment of secondary education was reduced in individuals with NF1 compared to controls (hazard ratio 0.83, 95%CI 0.74–0.92). History of cancer and developmental disorders were major predictors of lack of secondary education. Individuals with NF1 obtained vocational secondary education more often than general upper secondary education. Consequently, NF1 decreased the attainment of Bachelor's and Master's degrees by 46%–49% and 64%–74%, respectively. Surprisingly, the non‐NF1 siblings of individuals with NF1 also had lower educational attainment than controls, irrespective of parental NF1. In conclusion, NF1 is associated with reduced educational attainment and tendency for affected individuals to obtain vocational instead of academic education. Individuals living with NF1, especially those with cancer, developmental disorders or familial NF1, need effective student counseling and learning assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edvard Johansson
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Business, and Economics, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Petri Böckerman
- Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics, Jyväskylä, Finland.,Labour Institute for Economic Research, Helsinki, Finland.,IZA Institute of Labor Economics, Bonn, Germany
| | - Juha Peltonen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Sirkku Peltonen
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Dermatology, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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27
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Castricum J, Tulen JHM, Taal W, Ottenhoff MJ, Kushner SA, Elgersma Y. Motor cortical excitability and plasticity in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. Clin Neurophysiol 2020; 131:2673-2681. [PMID: 32977190 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2020.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that is associated with cognitive disabilities. Based on studies involving animals, the hypothesized cause of these disabilities results from increased activity of inhibitory interneurons that decreases synaptic plasticity. We obtained transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)-based measures of cortical inhibition, excitability and plasticity in individuals with NF1. METHODS We included 32 NF1 adults and 32 neurotypical controls. Cortical inhibition was measured with short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and cortical silent period (CSP). Excitability and plasticity were studied with intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS). RESULTS The SICI and CSP response did not differ between NF1 adults and controls. The response upon iTBS induction was significantly increased in controls (70%) and in NF1 adults (83%). This potentiation lasted longer in controls than in individuals with NF1. Overall, the TMS response was significantly lower in NF1 patients (F(1, 41) = 7.552, p = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS Individuals with NF1 may have reduced excitability and plasticity, as indicated by their lower TMS response and attenuation of the initial potentiated response upon iTBS induction. However, our findings did not provide evidence for increased inhibition in NF1 patients. SIGNIFICANCE These findings have potential utility as neurophysiological outcome measures for intervention studies to treat cognitive deficits associated with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesminne Castricum
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joke H M Tulen
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Walter Taal
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Myrthe J Ottenhoff
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Steven A Kushner
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ype Elgersma
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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28
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Farschtschi S, Mautner VF, McLean ACL, Schulz A, Friedrich RE, Rosahl SK. The Neurofibromatoses. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 117:354-360. [PMID: 32657748 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2020.0354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurofibromatosis of types 1 and 2 (NF1, NF2) and schwannomatosis are the diseases that make up the neurofibromatosis spectrum. With respective incidences of 1 in 3000, 1 in 33 000, and 1 in 60 000 births, they form part of the group of rare tumor-suppressor syndromes. They give rise to a greater tumor burden for the nervous system than any other type of neoplastic disease. New approaches to symptomatic treatment are emerging. METHODS This review is based on articles retrieved by a selective literature search on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of the neurofibromatoses. RESULTS NF1 and NF2 are monogenic diseases, while the genetics of schwannomatosis is complex. The three entities are clinically and pathophysiologically distinct. An important aspect of their tumor biology is the alternation of growth phases and growth pauses. Correlations between genotypes and phenotypes are variable, while new mutations and genetic mosaics are common. Ninety-nine percent of patients with NF1 have six or more café-au-lait spots by the age of 12 months; 90-95% of patients with NF2 develop bilateral vestibular schwannomas. In schwannomatosis, pain is the most prominent symptom; two-thirds of those affected develop spinal schwannomas. The severity and prognosis of these disorders are not closely correlated with the radiological findings; rather, neurologic deficits, malignant transformation, and psychosocial stress are of greater clinical importance. Advances in knowledge of pathophysiology have led to the development of targeted treatment approaches. Examples include the off-label treatment of vestibular schwannomas with bevacizumab and of plexiform neurofibromas with MEK inhibitors. CONCLUSION Patients with neurofibromatoses need individualized care. They should be treated in centers of expertise where interdisciplinary consultation is available and new types of pharmacotherapy can be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Said Farschtschi
- International Center for Neurofibromatoses (ICNF), Department of Neurology, University MedicalCenter Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Victor-Felix Mautner
- International Center for Neurofibromatoses (ICNF), Department of Neurology, University MedicalCenter Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | | | | | - Reinhard E Friedrich
- Department of Oromaxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Steffen K Rosahl
- Neurofibromatosis Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Helios Hospital Erfurt
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29
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Brain-wide structural and functional disruption in mice with oligodendrocyte-specific Nf1 deletion is rescued by inhibition of nitric oxide synthase. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:22506-22513. [PMID: 32839340 PMCID: PMC7486714 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2008391117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of myelin decompaction on motor behavior and brain-wide structural and functional connectivity, and the effect of nitric oxide synthase inhibition by N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) on these imaging measures. We report that inducible oligodendrocyte-specific inactivation of the Nf1 gene, which causes myelin decompaction, results in reduced initial motor coordination. Using diffusion-based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we show reduced myelin integrity, and using functional MRI, we show reduced functional connectivity in awake passive mice. L-NAME administration results in rescue of the pathology at the mesoscopic level, as measured using imaging procedures that can be directly applied to humans to study treatment efficacy in clinical trials. Neurofibromin gene (NF1) mutation causes neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a disorder in which brain white matter deficits identified by neuroimaging are common, yet of unknown cellular etiology. In mice, Nf1 loss in adult oligodendrocytes causes myelin decompaction and increases oligodendrocyte nitric oxide (NO) levels. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors rescue this pathology. Whether oligodendrocyte pathology is sufficient to affect brain-wide structure and account for NF1 imaging findings is unknown. Here we show that Nf1 gene inactivation in adult oligodendrocytes (Plp-Nf1fl/+ mice) results in a motor coordination deficit. Magnetic resonance imaging in awake mice showed that fractional anisotropy is reduced in Plp-Nf1fl/+ corpus callosum and that interhemispheric functional connectivity in the motor cortex is also reduced, consistent with disrupted myelin integrity. Furthermore, NOS-specific inhibition rescued both measures. These results suggest that oligodendrocyte defects account for aspects of brain dysfunction in NF1 that can be identified by neuroimaging and ameliorated by NOS inhibition.
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30
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Disruption of Critical Period Plasticity in a Mouse Model of Neurofibromatosis Type 1. J Neurosci 2020; 40:5495-5509. [PMID: 32527982 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2235-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common monogenic neurodevelopmental disorder associated with physical and cognitive problems. The cognitive issues are thought to arise from increased release of the neurotransmitter GABA. Modulating the signaling pathways causing increased GABA release in a mouse model of NF1 reverts deficits in hippocampal learning. However, clinical trials based on these approaches have so far been unsuccessful. We therefore used a combination of slice electrophysiology, in vivo two-photon calcium imaging, and optical imaging of intrinsic signal in a mouse model of NF1 to investigate whether cortical development is affected in NF1, possibly causing lifelong consequences that cannot be rescued by reducing inhibition later in life. We find that, in NF1 mice of both sexes, inhibition increases strongly during the development of the visual cortex and remains high. While this increase in cortical inhibition does not affect spontaneous cortical activity patterns during early cortical development, the critical period for ocular dominance plasticity is shortened in NF1 mice due to its early closure but unaltered onset. Notably, after environmental enrichment, differences in inhibitory innervation and ocular dominance plasticity between NF1 mice and WT littermates disappear. These results provide the first evidence for critical period dysregulation in NF1 and suggest that treatments aimed at normalizing levels of inhibition will need to start at early stages of development.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Neurofibromatosis type 1 is associated with cognitive problems for which no treatment is currently available. This study shows that, in a mouse model of neurofibromatosis type 1, cortical inhibition is increased during development and critical period regulation is disturbed. Rearing the mice in an environment that stimulates cognitive function overcomes these deficits. These results uncover critical period dysregulation as a novel mechanism in the pathogenesis of neurofibromatosis type 1. This suggests that targeting the affected signaling pathways in neurofibromatosis type 1 for the treatment of cognitive disabilities may have to start at a much younger age than has so far been tested in clinical trials.
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31
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Biotteau M, Déjean S, Lelong S, Iannuzzi S, Faure-Marie N, Castelnau P, Rivier F, Lauwers-Cancès V, Baudou E, Chaix Y. Sporadic and Familial Variants in NF1: An Explanation of the Wide Variability in Neurocognitive Phenotype? Front Neurol 2020; 11:368. [PMID: 32431664 PMCID: PMC7214842 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cognitive impairment is the most common neurological manifestation in NF1 and occurs in 30–70% of NF1 cases. The onset and severity of each specific cognitive deficit varies greatly from child to child, with no apparent external causes. The wide variability of phenotype is the most complex aspect in terms of management and care. Despite multiple research, the mechanism underlying the high heterogeneity in NF1 has not yet been elucidated. While many studies have focused on the effects of specific and precise genetic mutations on the NF1 phenotype, little has been done on the impact of NF1 transmission (sporadic vs. familial cases). We used a complete neuropsychological evaluation designed to assess five large cognitive areas: general cognitive functions (WISC-IV and EVIP); reading skills (“L'Alouette,” ODEDYS-2 and Lobrot French reading tests); phonological process (ODEDYS-2 test); visual perceptual skills (JLO, Thurstone and Corsi block tests) and attention (CPT-II), as well as psychosocial adjustments (CBCL) to explore the impact of NF1 transmission on cognitive disease manifestation in 96 children affected by NF1 [55 sporadic cases (29♀, 26♂); 41 familial cases (24♀, 17♂)]. Results: Familial and Sporadic form of NF1 only differ in IQ expression. The families' socioeconomic status (SES) impacts IQ performance but not differently between sporadic and familial variants. However, SES is lower in familial variants than in the sporadic variant of NF1. No other cognitive differences emerge between sporadic and familial NF1. Conclusions: Inheritance in NF1 failed to explain the phenotype variability in its entirety. IQ differences between groups seems in part linked to the environment where the child grows up. Children with NF1, and especially those that have early diagnoses (most often in inherited cases), must obtain careful monitoring from their early childhood, at home to strengthen investment in education and in school to early detect emerging academic problems and to quickly place them into care. Trial Registration: IDRCB, IDRCB2008-A01444-51. Registered 19 January 2009.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëlle Biotteau
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France.,Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Sébastien Déjean
- Institut de Mathématiques de Toulouse, UMR5219 Université de Toulouse, CNRS UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Sandrine Lelong
- Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphanie Iannuzzi
- Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Pierre Castelnau
- UMR 1253, iBrain, University of Tours, INSERM, Tours, France.,Department of Medicine, University of Tours Francois Rabelais, Tours, France.,Pediatric Neurology, Clocheville Children's Hospital, Tours University Hospital, Tours, France
| | - François Rivier
- Department of Pediatric Neurology and Reference Center for Language Disabilities, CHU Montpellier, PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Eloïse Baudou
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France.,Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Yves Chaix
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, University of Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France.,Children's Hospital, Toulouse-Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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32
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Examination of the genetic factors underlying the cognitive variability associated with neurofibromatosis type 1. Genet Med 2020; 22:889-897. [PMID: 32015538 PMCID: PMC7200599 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-020-0752-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant disorder associated with cognitive deficits. The NF1 cognitive phenotype is generally considered to be highly variable, possibly due to the observed T2-weighted hyperintensities, loss of heterozygosity, NF1-specific genetic modifiers, or allelic imbalance. Methods We investigated cognitive variability and assessed the contribution of genetic factors by performing a retrospective cohort study and a monozygotic twin case series. We included data of 497 children with genetically confirmed NF1 and an IQ assessment, including 12 monozygotic twin and 17 sibling sets. Results Individuals carrying an NF1 chromosomal microdeletion showed significant lower full-scale IQ (FSIQ) scores than individuals carrying intragenic pathogenic NF1 variants. For the intragenic subgroup, the variability in cognitive ability and the correlation of IQ between monozygotic NF1 twin pairs or between NF1 siblings is similar to the general population. Conclusions The variance and heritability of IQ in individuals with NF1 are similar to that of the general population, and hence mostly driven by genetic background differences. The only factor that significantly attenuates IQ in NF1 individuals is the NF1 chromosomal microdeletion genotype. Implications for clinical management are that individuals with intragenic NF1 variants that score <1.5–2 SD below the mean of the NF1 population should be screened for additional causes of cognitive disability.
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33
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Kehrer-Sawatzki H, Kluwe L, Salamon J, Well L, Farschtschi S, Rosenbaum T, Mautner VF. Clinical characterization of children and adolescents with NF1 microdeletions. Childs Nerv Syst 2020; 36:2297-2310. [PMID: 32533297 PMCID: PMC7575500 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-020-04717-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE An estimated 5-11% of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) harbour NF1 microdeletions encompassing the NF1 gene and its flanking regions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical phenotype in children and adolescents with NF1 microdeletions. METHODS We retrospectively analysed 30 children and adolescents with NF1 microdeletions pertaining to externally visible neurofibromas. The internal tumour load was determined by volumetry of whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 20 children and adolescents with NF1 microdeletions. Furthermore, the prevalence of global developmental delay, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were evaluated. RESULTS Children and adolescents with NF1 microdeletions had significantly more often cutaneous, subcutaneous and externally visible plexiform neurofibromas than age-matched patients with intragenic NF1 mutations. Internal neurofibromas were detected in all 20 children and adolescents with NF1 microdeletions analysed by whole-body MRI. By contrast, only 17 (61%) of 28 age-matched NF1 patients without microdeletions had internal tumours. The total internal tumour load was significantly higher in NF1 microdeletion patients than in NF1 patients without microdeletions. Global developmental delay was observed in 28 (93%) of 30 children with NF1 microdeletions investigated. The mean full-scale intelligence quotient in our patient group was 77.7 which is significantly lower than that of patients with intragenic NF1 mutations. ADHD was diagnosed in 15 (88%) of 17 children and adolescents with NF1 microdeletion. Furthermore, 17 (71%) of the 24 patients investigated had T-scores ≥ 60 up to 75, indicative of mild to moderate autistic symptoms, which are consequently significantly more frequent in patients with NF1 microdeletions than in the general NF1 population. Also, the mean total T-score was significantly higher in patients with NF1 microdeletions than in the general NF1 population. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that already at a very young age, NF1 microdeletions patients frequently exhibit a severe disease manifestation which requires specialized long-term clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hildegard Kehrer-Sawatzki
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Ulm and University of Ulm Medical Center, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Lan Kluwe
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany ,Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Salamon
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lennart Well
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Said Farschtschi
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Victor-Felix Mautner
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Kang M, Lee YS. The impact of RASopathy-associated mutations on CNS development in mice and humans. Mol Brain 2019; 12:96. [PMID: 31752929 PMCID: PMC6873535 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-019-0517-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The RAS signaling pathway is involved in the regulation of developmental processes, including cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation, in the central nervous system (CNS). Germline mutations in the RAS signaling pathway genes are associated with a group of neurodevelopmental disorders, collectively called RASopathy, which includes neurofibromatosis type 1, Noonan syndrome, cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome, and Costello syndrome. Most mutations associated with RASopathies increase the activity of the RAS-ERK signaling pathway, and therefore, most individuals with RASopathies share common phenotypes, such as a short stature, heart defects, facial abnormalities, and cognitive impairments, which are often accompanied by abnormal CNS development. Recent studies using mouse models of RASopathies demonstrated that particular mutations associated with each disorder disrupt CNS development in a mutation-specific manner. Here, we reviewed the recent literatures that investigated the developmental role of RASopathy-associated mutations using mutant mice, which provided insights into the specific contribution of RAS-ERK signaling molecules to CNS development and the subsequent impact on cognitive function in adult mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minkyung Kang
- Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongro-gu, Seoul, 03080, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Yong-Seok Lee
- Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongro-gu, Seoul, 03080, South Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea. .,Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongro-gu, Seoul, 03080, South Korea.
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35
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Ryu HH, Kang M, Park J, Park SH, Lee YS. Enriched expression of NF1 in inhibitory neurons in both mouse and human brain. Mol Brain 2019; 12:60. [PMID: 31234911 PMCID: PMC6591896 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-019-0481-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in NF1 gene, which encodes a GTPase activating protein for RAS. NF1 affects multiple systems including brain and is highly associated with cognitive deficits such as learning difficulties and attention deficits. Previous studies have suggested that GABAergic inhibitory neuron is the cell type primarily responsible for the learning deficits in mouse models of NF1. However, it is not clear how NF1 mutations selectively affect inhibitory neurons in the central nervous system. In this study, we show that the expression level of Nf1 is significantly higher in inhibitory neurons than in excitatory neurons in mouse hippocampus and cortex by using in situ hybridization. Furthermore, we also found that NF1 is enriched in inhibitory neurons in the human cortex, confirming that the differential expressions of NF1 between two cell types are evolutionarily conserved. Our results suggest that the enriched expression of NF1 in inhibitory neurons may underlie inhibitory neuron-specific deficits in NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Hee Ryu
- Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea.,Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Korea
| | - Minkyung Kang
- Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Jinsil Park
- Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea.,Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Sung-Hye Park
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Korea.,Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea
| | - Yong-Seok Lee
- Department of Physiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea. .,Neuroscience Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Korea.
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36
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Karwacki MW, Wysocki M, Perek-Polnik M, Jatczak-Gaca A. Coordinated medical care for children with neurofibromatosis type 1 and related RASopathies in Poland. Arch Med Sci 2019; 17:1221-1231. [PMID: 34522251 PMCID: PMC8425254 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2019.85143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Coordinated medical care offered in Poland for patients suffering from neurofibromatosis type 1 and related RASopathies combines complex multispecialty consultation with permanent supervision and the patient's oriented longitudinal care. Neurofibromatosis type 1 is one of the most common single gene disorders in the global population, observed in 1 out of 2500-3000 live births. It is a primary neoplasia disease with 100% penetration of the gene mutation but remarkable age-dependent onset of different disease signs and symptoms, outstanding clinical heterogeneity between patients even in one family and lack of genotype-phenotype correlation, a high rate of spontaneous mutation exceeding 50%, and multiple comorbidities among which increased risk of malignancy is the most important. Medical practice proved that not only patient-oriented complex but also coordinated care provided in centers of competence is indispensable for patients and the families and provides a sense of medical security to them in conjunction with public health costs rationalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek W. Karwacki
- Coordinated Care Center for Neurofibromatoses and related RASopathies, Department of Pediatrics, Hematology and Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mariusz Wysocki
- Department of Paediatrics, Haematology and Oncology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland
| | - Marta Perek-Polnik
- Neuro-oncology Division, Department of Oncology, The Children’s Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Jatczak-Gaca
- Department of Paediatrics, Haematology and Oncology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland
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Leppävirta J, Kallionpää RA, Uusitalo E, Vahlberg T, Pöyhönen M, Peltonen J, Peltonen S. Neurofibromatosis type 1 of the child increases birth weight. Am J Med Genet A 2019; 179:1173-1183. [PMID: 31016862 PMCID: PMC6618292 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is associated with reduced adult height, but there are no cohort studies on birth size. This retrospective study includes a cohort of 1,410 persons with NF1 and a matched comparison cohort from the general population. Figures for birth size were retrieved from the administrative registers of Finland, and the data were converted to standard deviation scores (SDS), defined as standard deviation difference to the reference population. The birth weight among infants with NF1 was higher than among infants without the disorder (adjusted mean difference [95% confidence interval]: 0.53 SDS [0.19–0.87]), as was the head circumference at birth (0.58 SDS [0.26–0.90]). The birth length of the NF1 infants did not differ significantly from the comparison cohort. The birth weight in the group consisting of NF1 and non‐NF1 infants of NF1 mothers was lower than among infants of mothers in the comparison cohort (−0.28 SDS [−0.51 to −0.06]), as was the birth length (−0.22 SDS [−0.45 to 0.00]). In conclusion, the birth weight and head circumference of persons with NF1 are significantly higher than those of persons without the disorder. NF1 of the mother reduces birth weight and birth length of the infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Leppävirta
- Department of Dermatology and VenereologyUniversity of TurkuTurkuFinland
- Department of DermatologyTurku University HospitalTurkuFinland
| | - Roope A. Kallionpää
- Department of Cell Biology and AnatomyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of TurkuTurkuFinland
| | - Elina Uusitalo
- Department of Cell Biology and AnatomyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of TurkuTurkuFinland
| | - Tero Vahlberg
- Department of Clinical MedicineUniversity of TurkuTurkuFinland
| | - Minna Pöyhönen
- Department of Medical and Clinical GeneticsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Department of Clinical GeneticsHUSLAB and Helsinki University Central HospitalHelsinkiFinland
| | - Juha Peltonen
- Department of Cell Biology and AnatomyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of TurkuTurkuFinland
| | - Sirkku Peltonen
- Department of Dermatology and VenereologyUniversity of TurkuTurkuFinland
- Department of DermatologyTurku University HospitalTurkuFinland
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Doser K, Kenborg L, Andersen EW, Bidstrup PE, Kroyer A, Hove H, Østergaard J, Sørensen SA, Johansen C, Mulvihill J, Winther JF, Dalton SO. Educational delay and attainment in persons with neurofibromatosis 1 in Denmark. Eur J Hum Genet 2019; 27:857-868. [PMID: 30820037 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-019-0359-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Most research on psychosocial consequences of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) has focused on the relationship between disease factors and cognitive functioning. NF1 may impair domains of learning and attention, resulting in low academic performance. This study is the first nationwide population-based cohort study to investigate educational attainment and delay in completing mandatory school by persons with NF1. Educational information was collected from 550 persons at the age of 30 (born 1965-1984). They were diagnosed with NF1 in Denmark and compared to a cohort of NF1-free persons matched on gender and age (n = 4295). Multinomial logistic models were applied to estimate odds ratios (ORs) for obtaining short (≤9 years) or medium (10-12 years) education compared to long education (>12 years) by the age of 30 years. We calculated the probability of graduating 9th year of mandatory school at different ages in 932 persons with NF1 and 7962 NF1-free persons (born 1965-2000) using quantile regression. The OR of educational completion for short- and medium-term education was three fold (95% CI 2.55-3.99) and 1.29 fold (95% CI 0.99-1.69) higher, respectively, for persons with NF1 than NF1-free persons after adjusting for birth year, gender, psychiatric and somatic morbidity and mother's education. Persons with NF1 were significantly delayed in graduating mandatory school education compared to NF1-free persons. When 90% of persons have graduated, persons with NF1 were 1.2 times older than the NF1-free persons. Experiencing delays in mandatory school likely affect further educational achievements and may impair employment and entering work force.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karoline Doser
- Survivorship Unit, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Line Kenborg
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Anja Kroyer
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Hove
- The RAREDIS Database, Centre for Rare Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital and Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - John Østergaard
- Center for Rare Disease, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Christoffer Johansen
- Survivorship Unit, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Oncology Clinic, Finsen Center, Rigshospitalet, 5073, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John Mulvihill
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jeanette Falck Winther
- Childhood Cancer Research Group, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Visuoperceptual Impairment in Children with NF1: From Early Visual Processing to Procedural Strategies. Behav Neurol 2019; 2019:7146168. [PMID: 30733835 PMCID: PMC6348799 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7146168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Visual-spatial impairment has long been considered a hallmark feature of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). No study investigating the cognitive and neuropsychological profile of NF1 used the Rey Complex Figure Test (RCFT) task as the primary measure of visual-perceptual abilities taking into consideration all functions involved including the strategic processing style. We compared 18 children with NF1, 17 siblings (S), and 18 typically developing children (TD) at intelligence scale and RCFT copy, recall, and recognition trials; we also evaluated the copy strategy as a measure of a visual-processing style. Children with NF1 had normal total IQ, with cognitive weaknesses in the perceptual organization and working memory in line with the existing literature. At the RCFT copy, immediate and delay recall scores are significantly lower in NF1 than S and TD, while recognition is in the normal range in all groups. Copy style was poor and less efficient in children with NF1 and correlated to copy and recall ability, but the effect of the group in the RCFT copy and recall remained significantly controlling for strategic approach. The present study confirms visuospatial impairment in children with NF1, due to a deficit in perceptual analysis of shape and their spatial features, in visuomotor integration efficiency and strategies, in recall memory, while recognition memory is preserved. A more configural/holistic style may facilitate both the visual-perceptual and visuomotor ability and the recall process. Visuoperceptual impairment in NF1 seems to be a unified process from early visual processing to higher order functions (planning, strategy, and executive functioning).
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40
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Schütze M, de Souza Costa D, de Paula JJ, Malloy-Diniz LF, Malamut C, Mamede M, de Miranda DM, Brammer M, Romano-Silva MA. Use of machine learning to predict cognitive performance based on brain metabolism in Neurofibromatosis type 1. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203520. [PMID: 30192842 PMCID: PMC6128556 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) can cause a wide range of cognitive deficits, but its underlying nature is still unknown. We investigated the correlation between cognitive performance and specific patterns of resting-state brain metabolism in a NF1 sample. Sixteen individuals diagnosed with NF1 underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT brain imaging followed by a neuropsychological assessment. Principal component analysis was performed on 17 measures of cognitive function and a machine learning approach based on Gaussian Process Regression was used to individually predict the components that represented most of the variance in the neuropsychological data. The accuracy of the method was estimated using leave-one-out cross-validation and its significance through permutation testing. We found that only the first component could be accurately predicted from resting state metabolism (r = 0.926, p<0.001). Multiple and heterogeneous measures contribute to the first component, mainly WISC/WAIS Procedure and Verbal IQ, verbal memory and fluency. Considering the accurate prediction of measures of neuropsychological performance based on brain metabolism in NF1 patients, this suggests an underlying metabolic pattern that relates to cognitive performance in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Schütze
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Danielle de Souza Costa
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jonas Jardim de Paula
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Leandro Fernandes Malloy-Diniz
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Carlos Malamut
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear, Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Mamede
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Departamento de Anatomia e Imagem, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Débora Marques de Miranda
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Departamento de Pediatria, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Michael Brammer
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Aurélio Romano-Silva
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Medicina Molecular, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Departamento de Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Rietman AB, van der Vaart T, Plasschaert E, Nicholson BA, Oostenbrink R, Krab LC, Descheemaeker MJ, Wit MCYD, Moll HA, Legius E, Nijs PFAD. Emotional and behavioral problems in children and adolescents with neurofibromatosis type 1. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2018; 177:319-328. [PMID: 29243874 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
To assess emotional and behavioral problems in children and adolescents with neurofibromatosis type 1,parents of 183 individuals aged 10.8 ± 3.1 years (range 6-17) completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Also, 173 teachers completed the Teacher's Report Form (TRF), and 88 adolescents (children from 11 to 17 years) completed the Youth Self-Report (YSR). According to parental ratings, 32% scored in the clinical range (above the 90th percentile). This percentage was much lower when rated by teachers or adolescents themselves. Scores from all informants on scales for Somatic complaints, Social problems, and Attention problems were significantly different from normative scores. Attentional problems were associated with lower verbal IQ, male gender, younger age, and ADHD-symptoms. Disease-related factors did not predict behavioral problems scores. Substantial emotional and behavioral problems were reported by parents, teachers, and to a lesser extent by adolescents with NF1 themselves. Possibly, a positive illusory bias affects the observation of behavioral problems by adolescents with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- André B Rietman
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs van der Vaart
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of General Pediatrics, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen Plasschaert
- Centre for Human Genetics, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bethany A Nicholson
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rianne Oostenbrink
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of General Pediatrics, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lianne C Krab
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Marie-Claire Y de Wit
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Pediatric Neurology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henriëtte A Moll
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of General Pediatrics, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eric Legius
- Centre for Human Genetics, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pieter F A de Nijs
- ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Leppävirta J, Kallionpää RA, Uusitalo E, Vahlberg T, Pöyhönen M, Peltonen J, Peltonen S. Congenital anomalies in neurofibromatosis 1: a retrospective register-based total population study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2018; 13:5. [PMID: 29335026 PMCID: PMC5769274 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-017-0756-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a dominantly inherited Rasopathy caused by mutations in the NF1 gene on chromosome 17. NF1 has been connected to congenital anomalies, e.g., in the skeletal and cardiovascular systems, but the overall incidence of anomalies is unknown. In this retrospective register-based total population study conducted in Finland, the congenital anomalies in NF1 were evaluated. Methods One thousand four hundred ten patients with NF1 were identified by searching the medical records related to inpatient and outpatient hospital visits of patients with an associated diagnosis for NF1 in 1987–2011. Each diagnosis was confirmed by a thorough review of the medical records. Ten non-NF1 control persons per NF1 patient were collected from the Population Register Centre. NF1 patients and controls were linked to the Medical Birth Register and the Register of Congenital Malformations. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for major congenital anomalies (MCA) were calculated. Results The OR for at least one MCA among NF1 children was almost threefold (adjusted OR 2.78, 95% CI 1.71–4.54) compared to controls matched for age, sex and municipality. NF1 children had a significantly increased risk of congenital anomalies in the circulatory (adjusted OR 3.35, 95% CI 1.64–6.83), urinary (adjusted OR 4.26, 95% CI 1.36–13.35) and musculoskeletal (adjusted OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.09–7.02) systems. Also, anomalies of the eye, ear, head and neck were more common among NF1 children than controls (adjusted OR 4.66, 95% CI 1.42–15.31). Non-NF1 children of mothers with NF1 did not have more anomalies than controls (adjusted OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.13–2.21). Conclusions Children with NF1 have more MCAs than controls and close follow-up during pregnancy and the neonatal period is required if the mother or father has NF1. Non-NF1 children of mothers with NF1 do not have an increased risk for anomalies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Leppävirta
- Department of Dermatology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Dermatology, Turku University Hospital, TE6, Hämeentie 11, P O Box 52, FI-20521, Turku, Finland
| | - Roope A Kallionpää
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FI-20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Elina Uusitalo
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FI-20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Tero Vahlberg
- Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Biostatistics, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FI-20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Minna Pöyhönen
- Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, P O Box 160, FI-00029 Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Clinical Genetics, HUSLAB, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Peltonen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FI-20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Sirkku Peltonen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland. .,Department of Dermatology, Turku University Hospital, TE6, Hämeentie 11, P O Box 52, FI-20521, Turku, Finland.
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Haas-Lude K, Heimgärtner M, Winter S, Mautner VF, Krägeloh-Mann I, Lidzba K. Motor dysfunction in NF1: Mediated by attention deficit or inherent to the disorder? Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:164-169. [PMID: 29111114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM Attention deficit and compromised motor skills are both prevalent in Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), but the relationship is unclear. We investigated motor function in children with NF1 and in children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and explored if, in patients with NF1, attention deficit influences motor performance. METHODS Motor performance was measured using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (M-ABC) in 71 children (26 with NF1 plus ADHD, 14 with NF1 without ADHD, and 31 with ADHD without NF1) aged 6-12 years. RESULTS There was a significant effect of group on motor performance. Both NF1 groups scored below children with ADHD without NF1. Attention performance mediated motor performance in children with ADHD without NF1, but not in children with NF1. CONCLUSIONS Motor function is not mediated by attention performance in children with NF1. While in ADHD, attention deficit influences motor performance, motor problems in NF1 seem to be independent from attention deficit. This argues for different pathomechanisms in these two groups of developmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Haas-Lude
- University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Magdalena Heimgärtner
- University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sarah Winter
- University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Victor-Felix Mautner
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Neurofibromatosis Outpatient Department, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ingeborg Krägeloh-Mann
- University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Karen Lidzba
- University Children's Hospital Tübingen, Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Hoppe-Seyler-Straße 1, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
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Leppävirta J, Kallionpää RA, Uusitalo E, Vahlberg T, Pöyhönen M, Timonen S, Peltonen J, Peltonen S. The pregnancy in neurofibromatosis 1: A retrospective register-based total population study. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 173:2641-2648. [PMID: 28815922 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this retrospective total population study was to form a view of the pregnancies of the patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). A cohort of 1,410 Finnish patients with NF1 was acquired by searching NF1-related inpatient and outpatient hospital visits and confirming the diagnoses by reviewing the medical records. Ten matched control persons per patient with NF1 were collected from Population Register Centre. Study persons were linked to data from Medical Birth Register and Care Register for Health Care through the personal identity code. Cesarean deliveries, hypertension/preeclampsia, and placental abruptions were more common among mothers with NF1 with adjusted odds ratios of 2.24 (95%CI 1.63-3.07), 1.96 (95%CI 1.18-3.24), and 13.40 (95%CI 4.26-42.13), respectively. The adjusted mean pregnancy duration was 0.65 (95%CI 0.42-0.88) weeks shorter among the mothers with NF1 than in the control group consisting of non-NF1 mothers giving birth to a non-NF1 child. The pregnancies of non-NF1 mothers giving birth to a NF1 child were 0.43 (95%CI 0.24-0.62) weeks shorter than in the control group. In summary, NF1 of the mother was associated with a shortened pregnancy and increased pregnancy complications. Also, the NF1 of the fetus slightly shortened pregnancy. Since mothers with NF1 are at increased risk for pregnancy complications, careful evaluation of their pregnancies is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Leppävirta
- University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | | | | | - Tero Vahlberg
- University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Minna Pöyhönen
- University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Susanna Timonen
- University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Sirkku Peltonen
- University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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Neuropsychological performance in neurofibromatosis type 1. ANALES DE PEDIATRÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpede.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Hernández del Castillo L, Martínez Bermejo A, Portellano Pérez JA, Tirado Requero P, Garriz Luis A, Velázquez Fragua R. Rendimiento neuropsicológico en la neurofibromatosis tipo 1. An Pediatr (Barc) 2017; 87:73-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Rietman AB, Oostenbrink R, van Noort K, Franken MCJP, Catsman-Berrevoets CE, Aarsen FK, Hendriksen JG, de Nijs PFA. Development of emotional and behavioral problems in neurofibromatosis type 1 during young childhood. Am J Med Genet A 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- André B. Rietman
- Department of Pediatric Neurology; Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital and ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Rianne Oostenbrink
- Department of General Pediatrics; Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital and ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Kimberley van Noort
- Department of Pediatric Neurology; Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital and ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Marie-Christine J. P. Franken
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology; Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital and ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Coriene E. Catsman-Berrevoets
- Department of Pediatric Neurology; Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital and ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Femke K. Aarsen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology; Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital and ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - Jos G. Hendriksen
- Center for Neurological Learning Disorders; Kempenhaeghe Expertise Centre for Epilepsy, Sleeping Problems and Neurocognitive Disorders; Heeze The Netherlands
| | - Pieter F. A. de Nijs
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology; Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital and ENCORE Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Rotterdam The Netherlands
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Van Eylen L, Plasschaert E, Wagemans J, Boets B, Legius E, Steyaert J, Noens I. Visuoperceptual processing in children with neurofibromatosis type 1: True deficit or artefact? Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2017; 174:342-358. [PMID: 28512747 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Impairments in visuoperceptual processing have long been considered a hallmark deficit of individuals with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). However, it is unclear which specific visuoperceptual subprocesses are impaired and whether impairments on these tasks really result from visuoperceptual impairments or rather from confounding factors like Executive Functioning (EF) impairments, lower intelligence (IQ) and/or co-occurring symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). To answer these questions, we administered four visuoperceptual tasks and two control tasks in 39 children with NF1, 52 typically developing children and 52 children with ASD (8-18 years), all matched for age and gender. Furthermore, EF, IQ, and symptoms of ASD were assessed. Children with NF1 displayed intact visual form discrimination and intact information integration along the dorsal visual pathway. Moreover, their reduced performance on a task requiring integration of information along the ventral visual stream and their more detail-oriented processing style appeared to result from confounding EF impairments and not from visuoperceptual impairments per se. The co-occurring ASD symptoms and lower IQ of the children with NF1 did not impact substantially upon their visuoperceptual performance. These findings point to the large impact of EF impairments on the performance of visuoperceptual task and suggest that individuals with NF1 show intact visual form discrimination, intact visual integration, and typical visual processing style when potential confounding factors are controlled for. This may have large repercussions for the interpretation of other findings on visuoperceptual processing in individuals with NF1. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lien Van Eylen
- Leuven Autism Research (LAuRes), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Parenting and Special Education Research Unit, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Research Group Psychiatry, UPC-KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ellen Plasschaert
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Human Genetics, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Wagemans
- Leuven Autism Research (LAuRes), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Brain and Cognition, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart Boets
- Leuven Autism Research (LAuRes), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Research Group Psychiatry, UPC-KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eric Legius
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Human Genetics, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jean Steyaert
- Leuven Autism Research (LAuRes), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Child Psychiatry, UPC-KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Clinical Genetics, University Hospital Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ilse Noens
- Leuven Autism Research (LAuRes), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Parenting and Special Education Research Unit, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Rietman AB, Oostenbrink R, Bongers S, Gaukema E, van Abeelen S, Hendriksen JG, Looman CWN, de Nijs PFA, de Wit MC. Motor problems in children with neurofibromatosis type 1. J Neurodev Disord 2017; 9:19. [PMID: 28529667 PMCID: PMC5437487 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-017-9198-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with the neurogenetic disorder neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) often have problems with learning and behaviour. In both parent reports and neuropsychological assessment, motor problems are reported in approximately one third to one half of the children with NF1. Studies using broad motor performance test batteries with relatively large groups of children with NF1 are limited. The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to describe the severity of motor problems in children with NF1 and to explore the predictive value of demographics, intelligence, and behavioural problems. METHODS From 2002 to 2014, 69 children with NF1, aged 4 to 16 years (age = 9.5 ± 2.8 years; 29 girls) had a motor, psychological, and neurological evaluation in an NF1 expertise centre. Data were collected about (1) motor performance (M-ABC: Movement Assessment Battery for Children), (2) intelligence, and (3) emotional and behavioural problems as rated by parents. RESULTS Sixty-one percent of these children scored within the clinical range of the M-ABC. In ordinal logistic regression analyses, motor problems were associated with symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and externalising behavioural problems. Motor outcome was not predicted by age, intelligence, scoliosis, hypotonia, nor hypermobility. CONCLUSIONS Motor problems are among the most common comorbid developmental problems in children with NF1, and these problems do not diminish with age. Because of their impact on daily functioning, motor problems need to be specifically addressed in diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment of NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- André B. Rietman
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, ENCORE NF1 Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Centre–Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Sophia Children’s Hospital, Room Sp 2478, P.O. Box 2060, 3000 CB Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rianne Oostenbrink
- Department of General Paediatrics, ENCORE NF1, Erasmus Medical Centre–Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Bongers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, ENCORE NF1 Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Centre–Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eddy Gaukema
- Kempenhaeghe Centre for neurological learning disabilities, Heeze, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra van Abeelen
- Kempenhaeghe Centre for neurological learning disabilities, Heeze, The Netherlands
| | - Jos G. Hendriksen
- Kempenhaeghe Centre for neurological learning disabilities, Heeze, The Netherlands
| | - Caspar W. N. Looman
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter F. A. de Nijs
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, ENCORE NF1 Expertise Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus Medical Centre–Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-Claire de Wit
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, ENCORE NF1, Erasmus Medical Centre–Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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