Learning Disability Flashcards
What is a learning disability?
State of arrested or incomplete development of the mind
What is the triad of features of learning disability?
Low intellectual performance (IQ<70)
Onset at birth/early childhood
Wide range of functional impairment
What are the ICD criteria for learning disability?
Mild = IQ 50-70 Moderate = IQ 35-49 Severe = IQ 20-34 Profound = IQ <20
What can cause a learning disability?
Genetic
- down’s syndrome
- fragile X syndrome
- prader willi syndrome
- cri du chat
Antenatal causes
- maternal infection
- maternal intoxication
Perinatal causes
- birth asphyxia
- neonatal sepsis
Neonatal causes
- hypoglycaemia
- infection
- kernicterus
What is Down’s syndrome?
Trisomy 21
What are the physical features of Down’s syndrome?
Palpebral fissure
Round face
Occipital/nasal flattening
Single palmar crease
What medical problems are associated with Down’s syndrome?
Heart defects
Hearing loss
Visual problems
GI problems
What is fragile X syndrome?
Sex linked disorder
What are the physical features of fragile X syndrome?
Large protruding ears
Long face
High-arched palate
Flat feet
What is the medical problem associated with fragile x syndrome?
Mitral valve prolapse
What is Prader Willi syndrome?
Partial deletion of chromosome 15
What is Cri du Chat?
Partial deletion of chromosome 5
What are clinical features of mild learning disability?
Difficulties in academic work Adequate - language abilities - social skills - self care
What are clinical features of moderate learning disability?
Limited language
What are clinical features of severe learning disability?
Marked degree of motor impairment
Little/no speech in early childhood
May have associated physical disorders
