Griffiths Mental Development Scales as a Tool for the Screening of Motor Disability in Premature Infants: Is it Worth it?

Aim: The goal of this study is to verify whether the Locomotor quotient of Griffiths Mental Development Scales (GMDS) can be considered a useful tool of screening for neurological disabilities in conjunction with objective tests. We explored whether there exists an association between the specialized medical examination and the GMDS Locomotor score at 6 and 12 months, and subsequently if it is possible to identify predictive factors at the birth of motor disability development. Materials and Methods: The sample includes 35 children born before the 32nd gestational week with a birth weight less than 1500 g. The neurological examination was performed by an experienced physician using the criteria outlined by Milani‑Comparetti and Amiel‑Tison, while infant level of development was assessed using GMDS. Results: Significant correlation was found between the medical diagnosis and the GMDS at 6 and 12 months. The intraventricular hemorrhage of III‑IV degree and periventricular leukomalacia were confirmed to be predictive risk factors for the development of motor disability. Conclusion: Locomotor quotient of GMDS could be used in conjunction with the standard neurological assessment to screen for motor disabilities.