NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTIONING IN CHILDREN WITH SPINA-BIFIDA AND OR HYDROCEPHALUS

Reviewed research on neuropsychological functioning (IQ, verbal, visuospatial, tactile, motor, executive, and academic abilities) in children with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus (SB/HC). These children usually have average to low-average intelligence but are prone to visuomotor deficits and delayed school progress, especially in arithmetic. Complications of SB/HC, including ventriculitis and seizures, tend to lower IQ scores and achievement in individuals. Limitations of existing studies and directions for future research are discussed.