Neurodevelopmental outcome of isolated ventriculomegaly: a prospective cohort study

Objective: Data regarding the neurodevelopmental outcome of children diagnosed in utero with isolated ventriculomegaly (IVM) are limited and principally founded on ultrasound-based studies. Here, we endeavored to assess the outcome of such cases in a large-scale, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based study. Methods: We conducted a study on 133 cases of IVM with a documented fetal brain MRI scan. Children were assessed at ages 18 to 36 months by using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS). Results: Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales scores were within normal range. There was no significant difference between VABS score in symmetric versus asymmetric IVM (101.7 vs. 101.6, respectively; p = 0.94), and the VABS score of mild IVM was comparable with that of moderate IVM (101.8 vs. 101; p = 0.8). Only five cases (3.8%) were found to have an abnormal score (<85). There was no significant difference in the rate of abnormal scores between mild and moderate IVM (2.8% vs. 8.3%, respectively; p = 0.22). Conclusion: In cases of isolated ventriculomegaly, a normal neurodevelopmental outcome is to be expected; moreover, the outcome does not appear to be affected by the severity or asymmetry of the ventriculomegaly. Thus, following a meticulous workup, patients can be given reassuring counseling regarding the child's prognosis.