Griffiths mental development scales as a tool for the screening of motor disability in premature infants: Is it worth it?

Abstract

Aim : The goal of this study is to verify whether the Locomotor quotient of Griffiths Mental Development Scales (GMDS) can be considered a useful tool of screening for neurological disabilities in conjunction with objective tests. We explored whether there exists an association between the specialized medical examination and the GMDS Locomotor score at 6 and 12 months, and subsequently if it is possible to identify predictive factors at the birth of motor disability development. Materials and Methods : The sample includes 35 children born before the 32 nd gestational week with a birth weight less than 1500 g. The neurological examination was performed by an experienced physician using the criteria outlined by Milani-Comparetti and Amiel-Tison, while infant level of development was assessed using GMDS. Results : Significant correlation was found between the medical diagnosis and the GMDS at 6 and 12 months. The intraventricular hemorrhage of III-IV degree and periventricular leukomalacia were confirmed to be predictive risk factors for the development of motor disability. Conclusion: Locomotor quotient of GMDS could be used in conjunction with the standard neurological assessment to screen for motor disabilities.