Attentional and processing skills following traumatic brain injury in early childhood

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: Attentional deficits are common following TBI in adults. This study examined whether these skills are also vulnerable following early childhood injury, when such skills are rapidly developing. RESEARCH DESIGN: This study investigated attention 30 months post-TBI in pre-schoolers (n=56) and age-matched controls (n=26). TBI children were divided into mild, moderate and severe injury groups. METHODS AND PROCEDURE: Pre-injury data were collected at time of injury. Assessment of attention included the Continuous Performance Test, Wechsler Intelligence Scale and Personality Inventory for Children. MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: Severe TBI was associated with reduced accuracy and slowed processing, particularly on complex motor responses. Sustained attention was more intact. Parental reports indicate internalized behavioural problems and somatic complaints. CONCLUSIONS: Young children with severe TBI are at risk for severe, persisting attentional impairments. Children with mild and moderate TBI show better outcome, with pre-injury behaviour and age also predictive of attentional skills at 30 months post-injury.