Cognitive, psychosocial, and educational issues in neuromuscular disease

There is a broad range of cognitive function in persons with neuromuscular disease, both between and within the various types. Those groups exhibiting little or no cognitive impairment included FSHD, LGS, BMD, SMA, and HMSN. DMD and MD--particularly C-MD-groups did show deficits. The data on HSCA are too minimal to reach any firm conclusion at this time. Specific patterns of deficits in DMD have been proposed, but need further research. No specific correlates with diminished intellectual function have yet been found, and the search for a cause of the intellectual deficit has as yet been unsuccessful. Nevertheless, the impact of NMD on psychosocial and educational function of both children and adults is significant. It is recommended that supportive services be provided by medical professionals specifically trained in such helping professions as psychology to lessen the impact of these chronic progressive diseases and thus to improve the quality of life of persons with NMD.