Reduced relative volume in motor and attention regions in developmental coordination disorder: A voxel‐based morphometry study

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2017.01.008
• Publication Date: 2017-01-21T17:48:59Z
• Authors: Jess E. Reynolds; Melissa K. Licari; Siobhan L. Reid; Catherine Elliott; Anne M. Winsor; Michael Bynevelt; Jac Billington
• Keywords: Voxel-based morphometry; Supplementary motor area; Grey matter; Movement assessment; Motor coordination; Motor area

Abstract Background and objectives Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a prevalent childhood movement disorder, impacting the ability to perform skills at an age appropriate level. Although differences in grey matter (GM) volumes have been found related developmental disorders, no such evidence has linked with DCD date. This cross‐sectional study assessed structural brain children without DCD. Methods High‐resolution images were acquired from 44 aged 7.8–12 years, including 22 (≤16th percentile on MABC‐2; ADHD/ASD), typically developing controls (≥20th MABC‐2). Structural voxel‐based morphology analysis was performed determine group focal GM volumes. Results Children significant, large, right lateralised reductions volume medial middle frontal, superior frontal gyri compared controls. The addition of motor proficiency as covariate explained between‐group differences, suggesting that regions are reflective level proficiency. A positive correlation between relative also identified left posterior cingulate precuneus. Conclusions premotor may underlie difficulties characteristic It possible intervention approaches targeting planning, attention, executive functioning processes associated reduced result functional improvements