Neuropsychiatric disorders in the 22q11 deletion syndrome

Purpose: This study was undertaken with a view to establishing the occurren ce of neuropsychiatric disorders in the 22q11 deletion syndrome. Methods: T hirty-two children and young adults with genetically confirmed 22q11 deleti on were given comprehensive neuropsychiatric assessments. Results: Altogeth er, 56% had a neuropsychiatric disorder. Only 6% were of normal IQ and free of psychiatric disorder. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder was diag nosed in 44% and 31% had an autism spectrum problem. In 16% criteria for bo th these diagnoses were met, fifty-three percent had mental retardation, of ten with a test-profile suggesting a nonverbal learning disorder. Conclusio n: The findings imply that a majority of children and adolescents with 22q1 1 deletion syndrome are in need of neuropsychiatric assessment and interven tion.