An evaluation of a case of agenesis of the corpus callosum with Rourke's nonverbal learning disorder model

This article evaluates the case of an Ii-year-old male with congenital agen esis of the corpus callosum, against Rourke's NLD models. A comprehensive n europsychological assessment was completed, and impairments with attention, movement, fine motor and sensory perception, visuospatial organization, an d verbal memory were identified. Additionally, a volumetric analysis of the magnetic resonance image (MRI) was completed. Although no gross structural abnormalities, beyond agenesis, were present, the possibility of unobserva ble abnormalities was considered. Many predicted NLD deficits were clearly evidenced in this case, including associated behavioral problems. This stud y concludes that although Rourke's NLD model is descriptive of many aspects of white matter impairments, it may not account for the full range or seve rity of deficits that may be observed. In callosal agenesis, children may e xhibit verbal learning, auditory attentional, and verbal expressive difficu lties. (C) 2001 National Academy of Neuropsychology. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.