Trajectories and predictors of the development of very young boys with fragile X syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To describe the development of young boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS).

Methods: Fifty-five boys (aged 8-48 months at study entry) with the full mutation FXS received multiple developmental assessments.

Results: As expected, the boys' rate of development was significantly lower than chronological age expectations. No evidence of slowing in the rate of development was found. Autistic behavior was negatively associated with development, but maternal IQ was not. Developmental delays were evident in some domains as early as 9 months; however, initial detection of delays is complicated by measures and criteria used. Developmental age scores at 31 months of age were related to scores obtained at 61 months of age only in the global composite and visual reception domain.

Conclusions: Developmental delays are evident in some infants with FXS as young as 9 months of age. Pediatric psychologists need to be informed about the developmental profiles in young children with FXS to accurately diagnose, treat, and support these children and their families.

Figure 1.

Global Age Equivalent by Chronological Age and CARS Scores. Note: Mean CARS is 27.61, Low CARS is 1 SD below the mean 21.87, and High CARS is 1 SD above the mean 33.35.