Developmentally Delayed Children and Adults

Abstract

Epidemiological studies have shown that epilepsy occurs much more often in people with intellectual disability than in the general population, with estimates ranging from 10 % to over 60 % of people with intellectual disability having some form of epilepsy (Forsgren et al., Epilepsy Research, 6(3), 234–248, 1990; Lhatoo & Sander, Epilepsia, 42(Suppl 1), 6–9, 2001). The severity of an indvidual’s seizures and their degree of intellectual impairment are highly correlated (Kaufman, Clinical neurology for psychiatrists (6th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier, 2007). There are several epilepsy syndromes that commonly have comorbid intellectual impairment and developmental delay, and there are several common developmental syndromes that are characterized by both intellectual impairment and seizures. This chapter will briefly outline a few syndromes that most commonly present with comorbid developmental delays and seizures. Additionally, the chapter outlines how neuropsychological assessment can assist in the evaluation and treatment of developmentally delayed children and adults with epilepsy. In particular, the chapter focuses on how various neuropsychological screenings and more comprehensive assessment measures can be used to elucidate and characterize neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses in the neuropsychological profile of individuals with global intellectual and cognitive impairments, which can further be used to optimize treatment of their seizures, acquire appropriate academic and social services, and inform families and caregivers about an individual’s overall capabilities.