Learning Disability

Question 1

What is the ICD10 definition of learning disabilities?

Answer 1

A condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind, which is especially characterised by impairment of skills manifested during the developmental period, which contribute to the overall level of intelligence i.e. cognitive, language, motor and social abilities

Question 2

What are the criteria for having a learning disability?

Answer 2

Intellectual impairment (IQ < 70)	(Wechsler)
Social or adaptive dysfunction (Vineland Scale)
	-Deficits/Impairments  in 2 or more of following adaptive skills: communication, self-care, home living, social skills, community use, self direction, health and safety, functional academics, leisure &amp; work
Onset in the developmental period (age 18)

Question 3

How are learning disabilities classified and what are the classifications?

Answer 3

IQ is used to classify level of LD
Mild learning disability-50 to 69
Moderate learning disability-35 to 49
Severe learning disability-20 to 34
Profound learning disability-<20

Question 4

What are some causes of a LD?

Answer 4

Genetic
-Single gene: Fragile X, PKU, Retts Syndrome
-Microdeletion/duplication: DiGeorge Syndrome, Prader–Willi, Angelman syndrome
-Chromosomal abnormality: Down Syndrome
Infective
-ante-natal e.g. rubella;
-post-natal e.g. meningitis, encephalitis
Toxic: e.g. foetal alcohol syndrome
Trauma: e.g. birth asphyxia, head injury
Unknown: for most individuals, the cause of their LD is unknown

Question 5

What are some conditions that are associated with LD?

Answer 5

Epilepsy – increased incidence and complexity with severity of learning disability (10-50%)
Sensory impairments – hearing (40 %) and vision (20%), earwax
Obesity – predisposes to other health problems
Gastrointestinal – swallowing problems, reflux oesophagitis, Helicobacter pylorii, constipation
Respiratory problems – chest infections, aspiration pneumonia
Cerebral palsy – especially with severe learning disability
Orthopaedic problems – joint contractures, osteoporosis
Dermatological and Dental problems- 33% unhealthy gums, for Down’s Syndrome, 80%
Higher incidence of psychiatric disorder

Question 6

What psychiatric illnesses are associated with LD?

Answer 6

Schizophrenia
Mood affective disorders
OCD
Autism
ADHD
Challenging behaviours and self injury