Diffuse white matter abnormality is independently predictive of neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To evaluate diffuse white matter abnormality (DWMA) volume at term-equivalent age as an independent predictor of neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants.

Study design

In this multicentre prospective cohort study, 392 preterm infants (≤32 weeks' gestation) underwent term-equivalent MRI with automated DWMA quantification. The primary outcome was cognitive function at 3 years corrected age using the Differential Ability Scales-II General Conceptual Ability (GCA) score. Secondary outcomes included motor function (Bayley-III) and cerebral palsy (CP) at 2 years. Multivariable regression analysed DWMA's prognostic value.

Results

Follow-up was available for 89% (GCA) and 87% (Bayley-III/CP) of participants (mean gestational age 29 (SD: 2.5 weeks). Mean GCA wa

SUBMITTER: Derbie AY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12795257 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature