Noise intensity modulates the responses of mantled howler monkeys to anthropophony.

Anthropogenic noise is a major global pollutant but its effects on primates are poorly understood, limiting our ability to develop mitigation actions that favor their welfare and conservation. In this study, we used an experimental approach to determine the impact of variation in noise intensity on mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata). We conducted the study at Los Tuxtlas (México), where we studied the physiological stress (proxied via fecal glucocorticoid metabolites, fGCM) and behavioral responses of 16 males. We played back chainsaw noise at two intensities (40 and 80 dB) and used days in which groups were not exposed to noise as matched controls. With increased noise intensity fGCM increased, vigilance and vocalizations were longer, and vigilance, vocalizations, and flight occurred quicker. Physiological and behavioral responses occurred even after low-intensity noise playbacks (i.e., 40 dB). Therefore, noise intensity is a significant factor explaining the responses of mantled howler monkeys to anthropogenic noise. These results imply that management actions aimed at eradicating anthropogenic noise are required for the conservation and welfare of mantled howler monkeys at Los Tuxtlas.

Dog barks influence the physiological stress and behavior of a wild primate.

Non-lethal impacts of dogs on primates have seldom been assessed. We used an experimental approach to determine if mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) perceive dog barks as an aversive stimulus and thus display physiological and behavioral responses toward simulated barks. For one year (1754 h of observations) we studied 16 adult males belonging to five groups in Los Tuxtlas (Mexico), and recorded the occurrence of naturally occurring dog barks, their sound pressure level (SPL), and the behavioral responses of howler monkeys to barks. We then exposed males to bark playbacks at two SPL treatments, 40 and 80 dB in a total of 50 experiments. We assayed glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in fecal samples (fGCM) as a marker of the physiological stress response of males. We also recorded the duration of vigilance, vocalizations, and flight in relation to playbacks. Naturally occurring barks were frequent and usually elicited behavioral responses by males. fGCM concentrations increased after bark playbacks and with stimuli intensity. Time spent vigilant increased following playbacks independently of stimuli intensity but both vocalizations and flight were linked to stimuli intensity: vocalizations were the longest after barks played-back at 80 dB, but males spent more time fleeing in response to 40 dB bark playbacks. These results provide evidence that dog barks are pervasive in the habitat of mantled howler monkeys living at Los Tuxtlas and disturb males, both physiologically and behaviorally. Although the potential costs of physiological and behavioral responses could not be determined, there is sufficient evidence to assume that they do have negative impacts on individuals. Therefore, our study provides avenues for future research on dog-wildlife interactions and valuable information for the design of conservation actions aimed at mitigating the impact of dogs on mantled howler monkeys.

Early-onset generalized dystonia caused by a new mutation in the KMT2B gene: Case report / Nueva mutación en el gen KMT2B como causa de distonía generalizada de inicio temprano: reporte de caso.

Introduction: KMT2B-related dystonia is a recently described subtype of focal-onset dystonia in the lower limbs, evolving into a generalized form with cervical, oropharyngeal involvement, dysarthria, swallowing disorder and intellectual disability. Clinical case: We describe the case of a 10-year-old female patient, without a history of consanguinity or neurological disease. She manifested abnormal gait and dystonia with focal onset and progressive course with evolution into generalized dystonia, affecting orofacial and bulbar muscles, significant alteration of language and swallowing. Metabolic and systemic studies, including neuroimaging, were found to be normal. A complete genomic sequencing study was performed identifying a new, probably pathogenic, heterozygous variant in the KMT2B gene, c.1205delC, p. (Pro402Hisfs*5), causing displacement in the reading frame, a finding that explains the patient's phenotype and it is associated to autosomal dominant childhood-onset dystonia-28. Conclusion: We report a new heterozygous mutation in the KMT2B gene as a cause of generalized early-onset dystonia not reported in the literature until the date. The diagnosis of this pathology has implications for the treatment and prognosis of patients, given that therapeutic strategies implemented early can prevent the fast deterioration and severe course of this disease.

La distonía por mutación en el gen KMT2B es un subtipo recientemente descrito del inicio focal de la enfermedad en los miembros inferiores que, posteriormente, evoluciona a una forma generalizada con compromiso cervical y orofaríngeo, disartria, trastorno secundario de la deglución y discapacidad intelectual. Se describe el caso de una escolar de 10 años de edad, sin antecedentes de consanguinidad ni historia familiar de enfermedad neurológica, que presentó alteración de la marcha y distonía de inicio focal, de curso progresivo a una forma generalizada que afectó sus músculos orofaciales y bulbares con alteración significativa del lenguaje y la deglución. Los estudios metabólicos y sistémicos, incluidas las neuroimágenes, no evidenciaron anormalidades. Se hizo una secuenciación genómica completa y se identificó una nueva variante, probablemente patogénica heterocigota, en el gen KMT2B, la c.1205delC, p.(Pro402Hisfs*5), que causa desplazamiento en el marco de lectura. Este hallazgo explica el fenotipo de la paciente y la distonía de inicio temprano autosómica dominante. Se reporta una nueva mutación heterocigota del gen KMT2B como causa de distonía generalizada de inicio temprano, no reportada en la literatura especializada hasta el momento. El diagnóstico de esta afección tiene implicaciones en el tratamiento y el pronóstico de los pacientes, porque las estrategias terapéuticas tempranas pueden prevenir su rápido deterioro y un curso más grave de la enfermedad.

Nueva mutación en el gen KMT2B como causa de distonía generalizada de inicio temprano: reporte de caso / Early-onset generalized dystonia caused by a new mutation in the KMT2B gene: Case report

La distonía por mutación en el gen KMT2B es un subtipo recientemente descrito del inicio focal de la enfermedad en los miembros inferiores que, posteriormente, evoluciona a una forma generalizada con compromiso cervical y orofaríngeo, disartria, trastorno secundario de la deglución y discapacidad intelectual. Se describe el caso de una escolar de 10 años de edad, sin antecedentes de consanguinidad ni historia familiar de enfermedad neurológica, que presentó alteración de la marcha y distonía de inicio focal, de curso progresivo a una forma generalizada que afectó sus músculos orofaciales y bulbares con alteración significativa del lenguaje y la deglución. Los estudios metabólicos y sistémicos, incluidas las neuroimágenes, no evidenciaron anormalidades. Se hizo una secuenciación genómica completa y se identificó una nueva variante, probablemente patogénica heterocigota, en el gen KMT2B, la c.1205delC, p.(Pro402Hisfs*5), que causa desplazamiento en el marco de lectura. Este hallazgo explica el fenotipo de la paciente y la distonía de inicio temprano autosómica dominante. Se reporta una nueva mutación heterocigota del gen KMT2B como causa de distonía generalizada de inicio temprano, no reportada en la literatura especializada hasta el momento. El diagnóstico de esta afección tiene implicaciones en el tratamiento y el pronóstico de los pacientes, porque las estrategias terapéuticas tempranas pueden prevenir su rápido deterioro y un curso más grave de la enfermedad.

Introduction: KMT2B-related dystonia is a recently described subtype of focal-onset dystonia in the lower limbs, evolving into a generalized form with cervical, oropharyngeal involvement, dysarthria, swallowing disorder and intellectual disability. Clinical case: We describe the case of a 10-year-old female patient, without a history of consanguinity or neurological disease. She manifested abnormal gait and dystonia with focal onset and progressive course with evolution into generalized dystonia, affecting orofacial and bulbar muscles, significant alteration of language and swallowing. Metabolic and systemic studies, including neuroimaging, were found to be normal. A complete genomic sequencing study was performed identifying a new, probably pathogenic, heterozygous variant in the KMT2B gene, c.1205delC, p. (Pro402Hisfs*5), causing displacement in the reading frame, a finding that explains the patient's phenotype and it is associated to autosomal dominant childhood-onset dystonia-28. Conclusion: We report a new heterozygous mutation in the KMT2B gene as a cause of generalized early-onset dystonia not reported in the literature until the date. The diagnosis of this pathology has implications for the treatment and prognosis of patients, given that therapeutic strategies implemented early can prevent the fast deterioration and severe course of this disease.

Female reproductive energetics in mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata): A follow-up study.

OBJECTIVE: Reproduction entails several challenges to primate females, among which energetic costs are remarkable at certain stages of the reproductive cycle. Still, females may use behavioral and physiological strategies to cope with those challenges. We had previously reported covariation between female energetic condition through the reproductive cycle and time-budget adjustments in mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata). Accordingly, we suggested that behavioral flexibility allowed coping with the energetic challenges of reproduction. Subsequent evidence from the same population, however, suggested otherwise, so we performed a follow-up study on the variation in female reproductive energetics based on a larger sample of females. METHODS: We studied 48 free-ranging adult females at Los Tuxtlas (Mexico). We assessed energy balance via urinary C-peptide concentrations (2717 urine samples), behavioral energy intake and expenditure (5728 sampling hours), and physiological energy expenditure via fecal triiodothyronine metabolites (fTH3; 3138 fecal samples). RESULTS: We found that energy balance varied among reproductive states: (a) cycling was a period of low C-peptide concentrations; (b) the highest C-peptide concentrations occurred during gestation; and (c) the beginning of lactation marked a notable decrease in C-peptide concentrations, which then improved at mid-lactation to again decline at lactation offset. These peaks and valleys in energy balance did not seem to be associated with variation in energy acquisition but were rather mirrored by activity levels and fTH3 during lactation. DISCUSSION: Energy balance was not preserved through the reproductive cycle, supporting previous contentions that the reproductive performance of female mantled howler monkeys may be energetically constrained. The contrast between these and results that we have previously reported, highlights the importance of conducting follow-up studies to continually improve our understanding of the reproductive energetics of primate females.

Encefalopatía epiléptica infantil en un paciente colombiano con una variante patogénica de novo en el gen STXBP1 / Infantile epileptic encephalopathy in a colombian child with a pathogenic de novo STXBP1STXBP1gene variant

El desarrollo de los estudios moleculares ha permitido identificar la etiología genética de diversas enfermedades como las encefalopatías epilépticas infantiles, las cuales se han asociado con variantes patogénicas en diferentes genes, entre ellos el STXBP1. La encefalopatía con epilepsia STXBP1 es una enfermedad genética con un patrón de herencia autosómico dominante, donde están alterados los mecanismos reguladores de la liberación de neurotransmisores por parte de las vesículas sinápticas, con alteración del neurodesarrollo. La edad de presentación del trastorno es temprano, con convulsiones en los primeros dos meses de vida. Los pacientes presentan dificultades en la alimentación, trastornos del movimiento y alteración del espectro autista. En este artículo presentamos el caso clínico de un paciente colombiano con encefalopatía epiléptica STXBP1 revisando los aspectos clínicos de la enfermedad, dirigido a profesionales de la salud para sensibilizarlos y así lograr el diagnóstico temprano. Esta es la primera publicación en el país de un paciente con esta etiología

The development of molecular studies has allowed identifying the genetic cause of various diseases such as infantile epileptic encephalopathy. Several pathogenic variants of different genes have been implicated including the STXBP1 gene. STXBP1 encephalopathy with epilepsy is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern with disrupted liberation of regulatory mechanisms of neurotransmitters in the synaptic vesicles associated with neurodevelopmental impairments. This condition is characterized by early onset with seizures in the first two months of life. Affected patients may have eating problems, movement disorders and autism spectrum disorders. Herein we present a case of a Colombian infant with STXBP1 encephalopathy with epilepsy. We describe the clinical aspects of the disease to sensitize health care professionals for them to identify this condition and achieve an early diagnosis. This is the first publication in Colombia on a patient featuring this type of etiology.

Distrofia muscular de Becker con duplicación en el exón 5 del gen DMD / Becker muscular dystrophy with gene DMD exon 5 duplication

Las distrofinopatías son un grupo de enfermedades ligadas al cromosoma X que abarcan diferentes entidades, siendo las más importantes la distrofia muscular de Duchenne (DMD) y la de Becker (DMB). Están causadas por mutaciones en el gen de la distrofina (gen DMD) localizado en el cromosoma X, locus Xp21.1. En relación con el tipo de mutaciones reportadas en el gen DMD, las delecciones y las mutaciones puntuales son las más comunes, mientras que las duplicaciones corresponden a 10-12%. Aunque las duplicaciones que abarcan el exón 5 ya han sido reportadas en la literatura, a la fecha no existen informes de casos que establezcan una relación genotipo fenotipo clara. Presentamos el caso de un paciente con distrofia muscular de Becker con un fenotipo no tan severo, en quien se encontró una duplicación en el exón 5. Con este caso pretendemos profundizar en la relación genotipo-fenotipo de la DMB, reportando las características clínicas en relación con la duplicación del exón 5 encontrada.

The dystrophinopathies are a group of X-linked genetic disorders. The most important forms of dystrophinopathies are Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD). They are caused by mutations of the dystrophin-encoding DMD gene located on the X chromosome at Xp21.1. Among the type of gene DMD mutations reported, deletions and point mutations are the most common, while duplications occur in 10-12% of cases. Although duplications of exon 5 are already reported in the literature, to date there are no cases reported which establish a clear genotype-phenotype correlation. Here we present the case of a patient with Becker muscular dystrophy with a slightly milder phenotype, in whom exon 5 duplication was found. With this case report, we intend to highlight BMD genotype-phenotype correlation by describing BMD clinical features in relation with exon 5 duplication.

Encefalitis de Rasmussen: diagnóstico y enfoque terapéutico / Rasmussen encephalitis: diagnostic and therapeutic approaches

Objetivo: describir el caso de una paciente escolar con diagnóstico de encefalitis de Rasmussen de presentación aguda y el enfoque terapéutico. Presentación: paciente femenina de 5 años y nueve meses que cursa con cuadro de evolución progresiva caracterizado por posturas distónicas que se inicia en pierna izquierda seguida de miembro superior ipsilateral asociadas con crisis focales con semiología de inicio opercular que la conducen a estatus epiléptico. La resonancia magnética cerebral evidencia cambios estructurales progresivos con atrofia hemisférica y del núcleo basal derechos, se inicia terapia antiepiléptica e inmunomoduladora con buena respuesta. Discusión: se realizó una revisión de la literatura sobre la presentación clínica, diagnóstico y mejores opciones terapéuticas. Conclusiones: se trata de una escolar con síndrome de Rasmussen en etapa aguda, con adecuada evolución clínica luego de inicio de inmunoterapia. En Colombia existen pocos reportes, nuestro propósito es realizar la presentación de un caso y revisar el enfoque diagnóstico y terapéutico.

Objective: to describe the case of a school-age patient aged 5 years 9 months diagnosed with acute Rasmussen encephalitis (RE), and its therapeutic approach. Case presentation: a girl aged 5 years 9 months presenting with progressive dystonic postures starting in the left lower limb with spread to the ipsilateral upper limb associated with focal seizures characterized by opercular epilepsy semiology which lead to status epilepticus. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging revealed progressive structural changes with atrophy of the right cerebral hemisphere and basal nuclei. Anti-epileptic and immunmodulator therapy was initiated obtaining good response. Discussion: a review of the literature on RE clinical presentation, diagnosis and best treatment options was conducted. Conclusions: this is the case of a young girl with Rasmussen syndrome in the acute stage evidencing proper clinical progression after receiving immunotherapy. Few reports exist on this topic in Colombia. Our purpose was to present a case and review RE diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Arteriovenous malformation masking associated anaplastic ganglioglioma in an adolescent / Malformación arteriovenosa asociada enmascara un ganglioglioma anaplásico multifocal en un adolescente

Abstract Grade III anaplastic ganglioglioma is an aggressive, rare, and radiosensitive central nervous system (CNS) tumour. It is more common in males, with a ratio of 1.3 to 1. Its peak incidence is in the third decade of life. Only 10 cases were recorded in children in Colombia from 2000 to 2014, with a fatal outcome in spite of radiation therapy. This is a case of an adolescent, who began having headaches, with warning signs related to an arteriovenous malformation hindering the diagnosis of this rare tumour. This presented in its aggressive, multi-focus form. Knowledge of clinical manifestations of space-occupying intracranial lesions facilitates the assessment and treatment of affected children.

Resumen El ganglioglioma anaplásico grado III es un tumor del sistema nervioso central (SNC) agresivo, infrecuente y radiosensible. Afecta más a hombres en una relación 1,3 a 1. Su pico de incidencia se encuentra en la tercera década de la vida. Existen solo 10 casos registrados en niños en Colombia desde el 2000 al 2014, con desenlace fatal a pesar de la radioterapia. Se presenta un caso de un adolescente que debutó con cefalea con signos de alarma asociado a una malformación arteriovenosa que dificultó el diagnóstico de este raro tumor, cuya presentación fue la más agresiva: la forma multicéntrica. El conocer las manifestaciones clínicas de lesiones intracraneales ocupantes de espacio facilita la evaluación y tratamiento a los niños afectados.

Importancia de la semiología y la bioquímica en el abordaje diagnóstico de un trastorno de la biogénesis peroxisómica / The importance of semiology and biochemistry in the diagnostic management of a peroxisomal biogenesis disorder

Introducción. Los trastornos de la biogénesis de los peroxisomas se deben a mutaciones en los genes PEX, que codifican peroxinas requeridas para la biogénesis peroxisómica. Clínicamente se expresan como un espectro del síndrome de Zellweger, y hay una amplia variedad fenotípica. Su diagnóstico se realiza bioquímicamente y la confirmación es molecular. El objetivo de este caso ilustrativo es resaltar la importancia de la clínica y de las pruebas bioquímicas en el abordaje de una enfermedad peroxisómica. Caso clínico. Niño de 3 años con hipotonía neonatal, retraso global del desarrollo y fallo de medro, con un patrón en resonancia cerebral de leucodistrofia hipomielinizante, en quien se había sospechado un trastorno de la biogénesis de los peroxisomas por encontrarse una variante de significado incierto en PEX5, pero su clínica, los estudios bioquímicos y el análisis crítico de las pruebas moleculares hacían improbable este diagnóstico. Se hace énfasis en el abordaje que debería tenerse cuando se sospecha un trastorno del espectro del síndrome de Zellweger. Conclusión. En el caso descrito se sospechó un trastorno de la biogénesis de los peroxisomas por una secuenciación exómica que, al analizarse críticamente junto con la clínica y los hallazgos bioquímicos, hacía muy poco probable una enfermedad peroxisómica. Cuando se tiene sospecha clínica y por neuroimágenes, el abordaje diagnóstico principal debe partir del análisis bioquímico. Aunque la confirmación es molecular, estas pruebas deben interpretarse con precaución

Introduction. Peroxisomal biogenesis disorders are due to mutations in the PEX genes, which code for peroxins that are required for peroxisomal biogenesis. Clinically, they are expressed as a Zellweger syndrome spectrum, and there is a wide phenotypic variety. They are diagnosed biochemically, and confirmation is molecular. The aim of this illustrative case is to highlight the importance of the clinical features and biochemical testing in the management of a peroxisomal disease. Case report. A 3-year-old boy with neonatal hypotonia, overall developmental delay and failure to thrive and a pattern of hypomyelinating leukodystrophy in brain resonance. The suspected diagnosis was a disorder affecting the biogenesis of the peroxisomes due to having found a variant with an uncertain meaning in PEX5. The clinical features, the biochemical studies and critical analysis, however, made this diagnosis unlikely. Emphasis is placed on the management that must be applied when a Zellweger syndrome spectrum is suspected. Conclusion. In the case reported here, a peroxisomal biogenesis disorder was suspected owing to an exome sequencing which, on being critically analysed together with the clinical features and the biochemical findings, made a peroxisomal disease very unlikely. In cases of clinical suspicion, backed up by neuroimaging, the main diagnostic management must be based on the biochemistry analysis. Although confirmation is molecular, these tests must be interpreted with caution

Síndrome De Tourette Familiar: Reporte De Caso Y Revisión De La Literatura / Familial Tourette Syndrome: Case Report And Review Of Literature

Resumen El síndrome de Tourette es un trastorno neuropsiquiátrico de inicio en la infancia caracterizado por múltiples tics motores y vocales de al menos un año de duración. Se desconoce su etiología exacta, pero se han involucrado las vías neuronales fronto-subcorticales e interacciones complejas entre factores sociales, ambientales y genéticos. Estudios genéticos han reportado loci de susceptibilidad en genes implicados en conexión sináptica, sin embargo, hace falta evidencia en muestras de mayor tamaño. Este reporte de caso describe un joven de 14 años con historia personal y familiar de síndrome de Tourette, sugiriendo un mecanismo de herencia autosómico dominante.

Abstract Tourette syndrome is a childhood neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by multiple motor and vocal tics of at least one year. Its exact etiology is unknown, but fronto-subcortical neural pathways and complex interactions between social, environmental and genetic factors have been involved. Genetic studies have reported susceptibility loci in genes involved in synaptic connection, however, evidence is needed in larger samples. This case report describes a 14-year-old boy with a personal and family history of Tourette's syndrome, suggesting an autosomal dominant mechanism of inheritance.

Alteraciones en el neurodesarrollo en preescolares con antecedente de prematurez: un estudio de corte / Neurodevelopment alterations in preschool children with a history of prematurity: a cross-sectional study / Alterações no neuro desenvolvimento em pré-escolares com antecedente de prematuridade: um estudo de corte

Resumen Antecedentes. Existe evidencia de la relación de la prematurez con alteraciones en el neurodesarrollo y desenlaces negativos en la salud mental. En Colombia no se han realizado estudios a la fecha sobre el tema. Método. Se realizó un estudio transversal que analizó una muestra aleatoria de 96 historias clínicas de preescolares (p=0,05) del Hospital Militar Central en Bogotá, Colombia, excluyendo lesiones neurológicas no relacionadas con el periodo neonatal como secuelas de trauma cráneoencefálico, malformaciones cerebrales, síndromes genéticos identificados y maltrato infantil. Se aplicó la escala abreviada del desarrollo (EAD-1) y la Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) y se tomaron datos sociodemográficos. Resultados. Se presentaron correlaciones positivas y significativas estadísticamente, entre la edad gestacional y la mayoría de las subescalas de neurodesarrollo, excepto en la subescala de motor grueso (p=0,063): fino/adaptativo (p=0,019), audición/lenguaje (p=0,011) y personal/social (p=0,041); y, de forma similar, entre el peso al nacer y la mayoría de las subescalas de neurodesarrollo, excepto en la subescala de motor grueso (p=0,60): fino/adaptativo (p=0,007), audición/lenguaje (p=0,010) y personal/social (p=0,010). Esta última fue la mayor correlación de todas. Conclusiones. Este estudio muestra que los niños con antecedente de prematurez presentan mayor riesgo de problemas en el desarrollo, sobre todo quienes presentaron peso al nacer inferior a 1500 gramos o menos de 32 semanas de edad gestacional, lo que correlaciona las alteraciones en el neurodesarrollo con las alteraciones comportamentales en el grupo de niños estudiado. Existen pocos reportes del cuidado de la salud y la rehabilitación durante la infancia para los niños pretérmino; en el Hospital Militar Central, por ser un hospital que cuenta con un programa de seguimiento de alto riesgo neurológico, lo resultados sugieren que la identificación temprana de los trastornos del neurodesarrollo y sus factores de riesgo así como la intervención oportuna son importantes en el cuidado continuo de esta población.

Summary Background: There is evidence linking prematurity with alterations in neurodevelopment and negative outcomes in mental health. To date, there have been no studies caried out on the subject in Colombia. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out in order to analyze a random sample of 96 preschool children's clinical records (p=0.05) from the Central Military Hospital in Bogotá, Colombia, excluding neurological injuries unrelated to the neonatal period, such as consequences of traumatic brain injury, brain malformations, identified genetic syndromes, and child abuse. The abbreviated scale of development (EAD-1) and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) were applied and sociodemographic data was obtained. Results: Positive and statistically significant correlations were found between gestational age and most of the neurodevelopmental subscales, except for the coarse motor subscale (p=0.063): fine/adaptive (p=0.019), hearing/language (p=0.011), and personal/social (p=0.041); and, similarly, between birth weight and most of the neurodevelopmental subscales, except for the coarse motor subscale (p=0.60): fine/adaptive (p=0.007), hearing/language (p=0.010), and personal/social (p=0.010). The latter had the highest correlation of all. Conclusions: This study shows that children which were born prematurely have an increased risk of developmental problems, especially those whose birth weight was lower than 1500 grams or those who had had a gestational age of less than 32 weeks; in turn, correlating the neurodevelopment alterations with behavioral alterations in the group of children studied. There are not many reports related to health care and rehabilitation during infancy for children born prematurely. Given that the Central Military Hospital is a hospital with a high-risk neurological follow-up program, the results suggest that early identification of neurodevelopmental disorders and their risk factors, as well as timely intervention, are important for continued care of this population.

Resumo Antecedentes. Existe evidencia da relação da prematuridade com alterações no neuro desenvolvimento e desenlaces negativos na saúde mental. Na Colômbia, até a presente data não se realizaram estudos sobre o tema. Método. Fez-se um estudo transversal que analisou uma amostra aleatória de 96 histórias clínicas de pré-escolares (p=0,05) do Hospital Militar Central em Bogotá, Colômbia, excluindo lesões neurológicas não relacionadas com o período neonatal como sequelas de trauma crâneo encefálico, malformações cerebrais, síndromes genéticas identificadas e maltrato infantil. Aplicou-se a escala abreviada do desenvolvimento (EAD-1) e a Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) e se tomaram dados sócio demográficos. Resultados. Apresentaram-se correlações positivas e significativas estatisticamente, entre a idade gestacional e a maioria das subescalas de neurodesenvolvimento, exceto na subescala de motor grosso (p=0,063): fino/adaptativo (p=0,019), audição/linguagem (p=0,011) e pessoal/social (p=0,041); e, de forma similar, entre o peso ao nascer e a maioria das subescalas de neurodesenvolvimento, exceto na subescala de motor grosso (p=0,60): fino/adaptativo (p=0,007), audição/linguagem (p=0,010) e pessoal/social (p=0,010). Esta última foi a maior correlação de todas. Conclusões. Este estudo mostra que as crianças com antecedente de prematuridade apresentam mais risco de problemas no desenvolvimento, sobretudo aquelas que apresentaram peso ao nascer inferior a 1.500 gramos ou menos de 32 semanas de idade gestacional, o que correlaciona as alterações no neuro desenvolvimento com as alterações comportamentais no grupo de crianças estudado. Existem poucos relatórios do cuidado da saúde e reabilitação durante a infância para as crianças prematuras; no Hospital Militar Central, por ser um hospital que conta com um programa de seguimento de alto risco neurológico, os resultados sugerem que a identificação precoce dos transtornos do neuro desenvolvimento e seus fatores de risco assim como a intervenção oportuna são importantes no cuidado contínuo desta população.

Trastorno del espectro autista: caracterización clínica en pacientes de dos centros de referencia en bogotá, colombia / Autism spectrum disorder: clinical characterization of patients at two reference centers in bogotá, colombia / Transtorno do espectro autista: caracterização clínica em pacientes de dois centros de referência em bogotá, colômbia

Resumen Introducción. Los pacientes con trastornos del espectro autista (TEA) presentan gran heterogeneidad en sus características comportamentales, cognitivas, médicas y psiquiátricas. En nuestro medio, no existe una descripción de tales variables. Si bien otros estudios han descrito un perfil clínico característico, es necesario conocer nuestra población blanco. Objetivo. Caracterizar clínicamente los pacientes con diagnóstico de TEA de dos centros de referencia, en Bogotá. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio retrospectivo observacional y descriptivo de serie de casos documentados en historias clínicas de enero de 2010 a enero de 2014. Se revisaron las historias clínicas de todos los pacientes con TEA confirmada por diagnóstico, incluyendo datos sociodemográficos, antecedentes personales y familiares, así como factores de riesgo descritos en la literatura en relación con la aparición de TEA; ayudas diagnósticas, comorbilidades y tratamiento. Resultados. Ochenta y un casos cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. En la serie, se encontró predominio en el género masculino (94,1 %), complicaciones perinatales (43 %) y prematurez (7,6 %). Las principales comorbilidades fueron trastornos conductuales (63 %), epilepsia (23,5 %) y trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad (23 %). Fue significativa la asociación entre epilepsia y discapacidad intelectual: 84 % (p<0,001). La asociación con síndromes genéticos o errores innatos del metabolismo fue mínima en nuestra serie. Los estudios complementarios fueron normales en la mayoría de los casos. Conclusiones. En nuestra serie predominó el autismo no sindrómico; la presentación clínica, el abordaje diagnóstico y terapéutico concuerdan con lo reportado en la literatura mundial. Los elementos clínicos constituyen la principal herramienta diagnóstica, el manejo conductual es el pilar de tratamiento. Estudios analíticos enfocados hacia las variables más significativas, permitirán la creación de estrategias terapéuticas dirigidas a nuestra población.

Summary Introduction: Patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present great heterogeneity in their behavioral, cognitive, medical and psychiatric characteristics. In our environment, there is no description of such variables. Even though other studies have described a characteristic clinical profile, it is necessary to know our white population. Objective: Clinically characterize patients diagnosed with ASD at two reference centers in Bogotá. Patients and methods: Retrospective, observational and descriptive study of a series of cases documented in medical records from January 2010 to January 2014. The clinical histories of all patients with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD were reviewed, including sociodemographic data, personal and family history, as well as risk factors described in the literature in relation to the occurrence of ASD; diagnostic aids, comorbidities, and treatment. Results: Eighty-one cases met the inclusion criteria. In the series, predominance was found in the male gender (94.1%), perinatal complications (43%) and prematurity (7.6%). The main comorbidities were behavioral disorders (63%), epilepsy (23.5%) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (23%). The association between epilepsy and intellectual disability was significant at 84% (p <0.001). The association with genetic syndromes or inborn errors of metabolism was minimal in our series. Complementary studies were normal in most cases. Conclusions: In our series, non-syndromic autism predominated; the clinical presentation, the diagnostic and therapeutic approach all agree with what is reported in the world literature. The clinical elements constitute the main diagnostic tool, and behavioral management is the pillar of treatment. Analytical studies focused on the most significant variables will allow for the creation of therapeutic strategies aimed at our population.

Resumo Introdução. Os pacientes com transtornos do espectro autista (TEA) apresentam grande heterogeneidade em suas características comportamentais, cognitivas, médicas e psiquiátricas. Em nosso meio, não existe uma descrição de tais variáveis. Se bem que outros estudos têm descrito um perfil clínico característico, é necessário conhecer nossa população alvo. Objetivo. Caracterizar clinicamente os pacientes com diagnóstico de TEA de dois centros de referência em Bogotá. Pacientes e Métodos. Estudo retrospectivo observacional e descritivo de serie de casos documentados em histórias clínicas de janeiro de 2010 a janeiro de 2014. Revisaram-se as histórias clínicas de todos os pacientes com TEA con firmada por diagnóstico, incluindo dados sócio demográficos, antecedentes pessoais e familiares, assim como fatores de risco descritos na literatura em relação com a aparição de TEA; ajudas diagnósticas, co-morbilidades e tratamento. Resultados. Oitenta e um casos cumpriram os critérios de inclusão. Na série, se encontrou predomínio no gênero masculino (94,1 %), complicações perinatais (43 %) e prematuridade (7,6 %). As principais co-morbilidades foram transtornos de conduta (63 %), epilepsia (23,5 %) e transtorno por déficit de atenção e hiperatividade (23 %). Foi significativa a associação entre epilepsia e incapacidade intelectual: 84 % (p<0,001). A associação com síndromes genéticas ou erros inatos do metabolismo foi mínima em nossa série. Os estudos complementares foram normais na maioria dos casos. Conclusões. Em nossa série predominou o autismo não sindrômico; a apresentação clínica, a abordagem diagnóstica e terapêutica concordam com a informação reportada na literatura mundial. Os elementos clínicos constituem a principal ferramenta diagnóstica, o manejo da conduta é o pilar de tratamento. Estudos analíticos enfocados às variáveis mais significativas permitirão a criação de estratégias terapêuticas dirigidas a nossa população.

Clínica y diagnóstico de la enfermedad de Pelizaeus-Merzbacher: descripción de cinco casos / Clinical features and diagnosis of Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease: five case reports

Introducción. La enfermedad de Pelizaeus-Merzbacher es un trastorno hipomielinizante raro debido a alteraciones en el gen PLP1, que lleva a un fallo de la mielinización axonal de los oligodendrocitos en el sistema nervioso central. Existen dos formas descritas según la gravedad de su presentación: connatal y clásica. Se caracteriza por hipotonía neonatal, retraso del desarrollo psicomotor, espasticidad progresiva de predominio en los miembros inferiores y nistagmo, con signos y síntomas piramidales y extrapiramidales, y la forma connatal es mucho más grave. La resonancia magnética muestra leucoencefalopatía hipomielinizante difusa, los potenciales evocados usualmente se alteran y la confirmación se realiza mediante estudio molecular del gen PLP1. Casos clínicos. Se presentan cinco pacientes pediátricos afectados, cuatro con la forma clásica y uno con la forma connatal; se describen las características clínicas, los estudios complementarios y se realiza una revisión concisa de la bibliografía. Conclusión. Esta enfermedad tiene una evolución progresiva y casi invariable, lo cual es la clave clínica para diferenciarla de otras entidades como la parálisis cerebral infantil, neuropatías periféricas, esclerosis múltiple, entre otras, además de los hallazgos característicos en las neuroimágenes. Es necesario sospechar este diagnóstico y confirmar alteraciones en el gen PLP1 con el fin de obtener una incidencia real de esta entidad, probablemente subestimada, como otras leucodistrofias (AU)

Introduction. Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease is an infrequent hypomyelinating disorder caused by alterations in the PLP1 gene, which leads to a fault in the axonal myelination of the oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system. Two forms have been reported, according to the severity of the presentation: connatal and classic. It is characterised by neonatal hypotonia, delayed psychomotor development, progressive spasticity predominantly in the lower limbs and nystagmus, with pyramidal and extrapyramidal signs and symptoms; the connatal form is far more severe. Magnetic resonance imaging shows diffuse hypomyelinating leukoencephalopathy, evoked potentials are usually altered and confirmation is obtained through a molecular study of the PLP1 gene. Case reports. We present the cases of five paediatric patients, four of whom had the classic form and one with the connatal form. The clinical characteristics and complementary studies are described, and a concise review of the literature is carried out. Conclusion. This disease has a progressive and almost unvarying course, which is the clinical key to be able to differentiate it from other entities such as infantile cerebral palsy, peripheral neuropathies or multiple sclerosis, among others, in addition to the characteristic neuroimaging findings. It is necessary to suspect this diagnosis and confirm alterations in the PLP1 gene with the aim of obtaining a real incidence of this entity, which is probably underestimated, like other leukodystrophies (AU)

Acidemia metilmalónica: presentación de un caso y revisión de literatura científica / Methylmalonic acidemia: report of a case and review of scientific literature / Acidemia orgânica metilmalônica: apresentação de caso e revisão de literatura cientifica

La acidemia metilmalónica es un desorden causado por anormalidad en la enzima metil malonil CoA mutasa o su cofactor Adenosilcobalamina. Esta holoenzima se encuentra implicada en el catabolismo de varios aminoácidos entre los que se incluyen dos de cadena ramificada (isoleucina y valina). Puede presentarse como una forma severa de inicio neonatal hasta formas con síntomas lentamente progresivos como hipotonía y retardo en el desarrollo. El diagnóstico y tratamiento oportuno, pueden modificar el curso y desenlace de la enfermedad, mejorando la calidad de vida del paciente. Reportamos el caso de un lactante de 3 meses, con pancitopenia, hipotonía, retardo en desarrollo y convulsiones. Se diagnosticó acidemia metilmalónica mediante cromatografía de ácidos orgánicos en orina. El paciente fue tratado con Cianocobalamina, restricción dietaria y levetiracetam con respuesta clínica favorable. Actualmente permanece libre de crisis, los índices de desarrollo son normales y la pancitopenia resolvió. Este caso muestra como el diagnóstico y tratamiento temprano en un paciente con acidemia metilmalónica, aun cuando se origine por déficit de cofactor, puede favorecer el pronóstico neurológico y funcional.

Methylmalonic Acidemia is a disorder caused by an abnormality of methylmalonyl-CoA mutase or a deficiency of adenosylcobalamin as cofactor. This holoenzyme is involved in the catabolism of branched chain amino acids. It can present clinically either as a severe neonatal-onset form, or some progressive symptoms as hypotonia and developmental delay. Early diagnosis and treatment can alter the course and outcome. We report the case of a 3- month- old boy, with pancytopenia, hypotonia, developmental delay and seizures. Methylmalonic Acidemia was diagnosed by urinary organic acid chromatography. Patient was treated with Cyanocobalamin, dietary restriction and levetiracetam with favorable response. He is currently seizure free, development indexes are normal and pancytopenia has resolved. This case shows how early diagnosis and treatment in a patient with Methylmalonic Acidemia caused by cofactor deficiency may favor functional and neurologic outcomes.

A acidémia metilmalónica é uma desordem causada pela anormalidade na enzima l-metil malonil- coa mutase o no seu cofator adenosilcobalamina. Esta holoenzima está envolvida no catabolismo de vários aminoácidos, entre os quais encontrasse os de cadeia ramificada (isoleucina e valina). Sua apresentação clínica pode ser uma forma grave em neonatos com sintomas lentamente progressivos, como hipotonia e atraso no desenvolvimento. O diagnóstico e tratamento precoce podem alterar a história natural da doença, melhorando a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Relata-se o caso de uma criança de colo de três meses, com pancitopenia, hipotonia, atraso no desenvolvimento e convulsões. O diagnóstico de acidémia metilmalónica foi feito com cromatografia. O paciente foi tratado com Cianocobalamina, regime de dieta e levetiracetam, com resposta clínica favorável. Atualmente o paciente está sem crises, o desenvolvimento é normal para idade e a pancitopenia foi resolvida. Na acidémica metilmalónica, a despeito, da sua origem por déficit de cofator com diagnóstico e tratamento precoce, pode ter uma evolução neurológica e funcional.

Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification to subtelomeric rearrangements in idiopathic intellectual disability in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: A cause cannot be determined in 30% to 50% of patients with intellectual disability. Determining the etiology of intellectual disability is important and useful for pediatric neurologists, geneticists, pediatricians, and patients' families because it allows assessment of recurrence risk, appropriate genetic counseling, and focus on treatment options and prognosis. This study aims to determine the prevalence, origin, and characterization of subtelomeric rearrangements through the Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification method in pediatric patients with idiopathic intellectual disability. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was undertaken with patients seen in consultation at the neuropediatrics or genetic service of the Central Military Hospital, the Mercy' Hospital, or the Genetics Institute National University of Colombia. Patients were diagnosed with idiopathic intellectual disability between December 2010 and September 2011 and underwent a complete medical history, physical examination, and assessment to rule out other etiologies of intellectual disability. Then we applied the genetic test of Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification to each patient's sample of peripheral blood to determine subtelomeric rearrangements. RESULTS: We studied a group of 119 patients with idiopathic intellectual disability; Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification showed subtelomeric rearrangements in five. In the group with subtelomeric rearrangements, the most frequent results were de novo rearrangements (80%), deletion type (60%), moderate and severe intellectual disability (80%), minor phenotypic abnormalities (80%), and family history of neurological disorders (80%). No dependence relationship was observed between subtelomeric rearrangements and family history of neurological disorders, family history of intellectual disability, severity of intellectual disability, phenotypic abnormalities, and consanguinity. CONCLUSIONS: This study determined a prevalence of subtelomeric rearrangements of 4.2% in a group of Colombian pediatric patients with idiopathic intellectual disability using the genetic test Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification.

[Detection of subtelomeric rearrangements due to MLPA in paediatric patients with refractory epilepsy in Colombia: the role of the CHL1 gene in pharmacoresistance]. / Detección de rearreglos subteloméricos por MLPA en pacientes pediátricos con epilepsia refractaria en Colombia: papel del gen CHL1 en la farmacorresistencia.

INTRODUCTION. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by a predisposition to the recurrence of seizures of distinct causation and with variable clinical manifestations. Up to 40% of patients do not manage to control their seizures with the first anticonvulsive drug and the addition of a second pharmaceutical affords control in only another 11%. Given the aetiological heterogeneity of pharmacoresistance, it has been suggested that the presence of genomic disorders in patients with refractoriness could be elements worthy of analysis when it comes to estimating the alteration in the pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic profiles of these patients. AIM. To detect the presence of subtelomeric rearrangements in Colombian paediatric patients with refractory epilepsy. PATIENTS AND METHODS. The multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) technique was used to evaluate the presence of cytogenetically non-visible chromosome aberrations in subtelomeric regions of 113 patients diagnosed with refractory epilepsy from three national referral centres in Colombia. RESULTS. Subtelomeric chromosome aberrations were detected in 0.9% of patients corresponding to a duplication of locus 3p26.3 in gene CHL1. CONCLUSIONS. This study suggests the use of the MLPA methodology to detect subtelomeric rearrangements that may be associated with phenotypes of refractoriness in epileptic patients.

TITLE: Deteccion de rearreglos subtelomericos por MLPA en pacientes pediatricos con epilepsia refractaria en Colombia: papel del gen CHL1 en la farmacorresistencia.Introduccion. La epilepsia es un trastorno neurologico caracterizado por una predisposicion a la recurrencia de crisis convulsivas de etiologia diversa y con manifestaciones clinicas variables. Hasta un 40% de los pacientes no logra el control de las crisis con el primer tratamiento anticonvulsionante y la adicion de un segundo farmaco logra el control de solo un 11% adicional. Dada la heterogeneidad etiologica de la farmacorresistencia se ha propuesto que la presencia de trastornos genomicos en pacientes con refractariedad podrian ser elementos de analisis a la hora de estimar la alteracion en los perfiles farmacocineticos o farmacodinamicos de estos pacientes. Objetivo. Detectar la presencia de rearreglos subtelomericos en pacientes pediatricos colombianos con epilepsia refractaria. Pacientes y metodos. Se utilizo la tecnica de amplificacion multiple de sondas dependiente de ligamiento (MLPA) para evaluar la presencia de aberraciones cromosomicas no visibles citogeneticamente en las regiones subtelomericas de 113 pacientes diagnosticados con epilepsia refractaria provenientes de tres centros de referencia nacional en Colombia. Resultados. Se detectaron aberraciones cromosomicas subtelomericas en el 0,9% de los pacientes correspondientes a una duplicacion del locus 3p26.3 en el gen CHL1. Conclusion. Este estudio plantea el uso de la metodologia de MLPA para la deteccion de rearreglos subtelomericos que puedan asociarse con fenotipos de refractariedad en pacientes epilepticos.

Detección de rearreglos subteloméricos por MLPA en pacientes pediátricos con epilepsia refractaria en Colombia: papel del gen CHL1 en la farmacorresistencia / Detection of subtelomeric rearrangements due to MLPA in paediatric patients with refractory epilepsy in Colombia: the role of the CHL1 gene in pharmacoresistance

Introducción. La epilepsia es un trastorno neurológico caracterizado por una predisposición a la recurrencia de crisis convulsivas de etiología diversa y con manifestaciones clínicas variables. Hasta un 40% de los pacientes no logra el control de las crisis con el primer tratamiento anticonvulsionante y la adición de un segundo fármaco logra el control de sólo un 11% adicional. Dada la heterogeneidad etiológica de la farmacorresistencia se ha propuesto que la presencia de trastornos genómicos en pacientes con refractariedad podrían ser elementos de análisis a la hora de estimar la alteración en los perfiles farmacocinéticos o farmacodinámicos de estos pacientes. Objetivo. Detectar la presencia de rearreglos subteloméricos en pacientes pediátricos colombianos con epilepsia refractaria. Pacientes y métodos. Se utilizó la técnica de amplificación múltiple de sondas dependiente de ligamiento (MLPA) para evaluar la presencia de aberraciones cromosómicas no visibles citogenéticamente en las regiones subteloméricas de 113 pacientes diagnosticados con epilepsia refractaria provenientes de tres centros de referencia nacional en Colombia. Resultados. Se detectaron aberraciones cromosómicas subteloméricas en el 0,9% de los pacientes correspondientes a una duplicación del locus 3p26.3 en el gen CHL1. Conclusión. Este estudio plantea el uso de la metodología de MLPA para la detección de rearreglos subteloméricos que puedan asociarse con fenotipos de refractariedad en pacientes epilépticos (AU)

Introduction. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by a predisposition to the recurrence of seizures of distinct causation and with variable clinical manifestations. Up to 40% of patients do not manage to control their seizures with the first anticonvulsive drug and the addition of a second pharmaceutical affords control in only another 11%. Given the aetiological heterogeneity of pharmacoresistance, it has been suggested that the presence of genomic disorders in patients with refractoriness could be elements worthy of analysis when it comes to estimating the alteration in the pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic profiles of these patients. Aim. To detect the presence of subtelomeric rearrangements in Colombian paediatric patients with refractory epilepsy. Patients and methods. The multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) technique was used to evaluate the presence of cytogenetically non-visible chromosome aberrations in subtelomeric regions of 113 patients diagnosed with refractory epilepsy from three national referral centres in Colombia. Results. Subtelomeric chromosome aberrations were detected in 0.9% of patients corresponding to a duplication of locus 3p26.3 in gene CHL1. Conclusions. This study suggests the use of the MLPA methodology to detect subtelomeric rearrangements that may be associated with phenotypes of refractoriness in epileptic patients (AU)

Etiología del retardo mental en la infancia: experiencia en dos centros de tercer nivel / Etiology of mental retardation in children: experience in two third level centers

Introducción. De 1 a 3 % de la población mundial tiene retardo mental. Este trastorno constituye un motivo de consulta y diagnóstico frecuente en los servicios de Neuropediatría. Objetivo. Determinar la etiología en pacientes con retraso mental que asisten a la consulta de Neuropediatría en dos centros hospitalarios de tercer nivel. Materiales y métodos. Se incluyeron pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico de retardo mental, para cuya evaluación se empleó el algoritmo diagnóstico propuesto por el Comité de Genética Médica y Academia de Pediatría. Los datos se registraron en una base de Excel ™ y posteriormente se analizaron en SPSS ™ , versión 1.5. La causa etiológica de la discapacidad cognitiva se clasificó en cinco categorías. Resultados. Se incluyeron 239 pacientes. Según la gravedad, 39 % de los pacientes presentaron retardo mental leve, 37,7 %, moderado, 13,4%, grave, y 9,6 %, profundo. Entre las manifestaciones clínicas se destacó la presencia de anomalías menores en el 70,3 %, hallazgos que al encontrarse en más de dos sugirieron una causa de origen genético. La etiología definitiva del retardo mental se determinó en el 64,4 %. Las causas ambientales explicaron el 36,4% de esta discapacidad, en la cual la hipoxia perinatal fue la más frecuente. Las causas genéticas explicaron el 23,8 % de los casos. Finalmente, el 23,8 % persistieron sin diagnóstico específico. Conclusiones. La hipoxia perinatal es la causa más frecuente de discapacidad cognitiva. Es por esto que el tratamiento precoz de las enfermedades concomitantes del recién nacido prematuro pueden causar un impacto en el resultado final, disminuyendo la discapacidad motora y cognitiva. La segunda causa de retardo mental es la genética. La proporción de pacientes sin diagnóstico específico posiblemente podría disminuirse si el acceso de esta población a estudios de genética fuera mayor y los estudios pudieran ser cubiertos, en cualquiera de sus afiliaciones, por el sistema de salud del país.

Introduction: One to three per cent of the world population has mental retardation. This is a frequently consulted and diagnosed disorder in neuropediatric services. Causes are heterogeneous and only a proportion of these patients achieve an accurate etiologic diagnosis. Objective: To determine the etiology of patients with mental retardation who go to the neuropediatric services in two third level hospitals. Materials and methods: We included pediatric patients diagnosed with mental retardation, and used the diagnostic algorithm proposed by the committee of medical genetics and the Academy of Pediatrics for the evaluation of these patients. The data were entered into an Excel database and subsequently analyzed in SPSS 1.5. The etiology of cognitive impairment was classified into five categories. Results: We included 239 patients: 60.3% were male; according to the severity, 39% of the patients had mild mental retardation, 37.7% had moderate mental retardation, 13.4% had severe mental retardation, and 9.6% had profound mental retardation. In the clinical findings, we found the presence of minor anomalies in 70.3% of patients; these findings in more than two patients suggested a genetic etiology. Definitive etiology of mental retardation was determined in 64.4% of the patients. Environmental causes accounted for 36.4% of this disability in which perinatal hypoxia is the most frequent cause. Genetic causes accounted for 23.8% of the etiology. Finally, 23.8% continued to have no specific diagnosis. Conclusions: Perinatal hypoxia is the most common cause of cognitive impairment in our population. Early treatment of comorbidities of premature infants can impact the bottom line by decreasing motor and cognitive impairment in these patients. Patients with genetic etiology are the second cause. The proportion of undiagnosed patients could decrease if patient access to genetic studies were better and if these studies were covered by the social security regime in our country, regardless of affiliation.