Investigating the child with learning difficulty

Abstract 

Paediatricians must have a clear understanding of how to approach assessment, investigation and management of children with learning difficulty if a positive difference is to be made to their health and well being. Investigations should be considered only after thorough clinical assessment and careful thought about the individual child. Although it is rarely possible to treat the primary cause of a child's learning difficulty, it is often possible to prevent or at least minimize the impact of secondary disabilities, such as epilepsy, sensory impairment, behavioural or communication difficulties, and always possible to ensure that parents and carers are informed about appropriate support.

Keywords: mental retardation, developmental disabilities, learning disorder, quality of life

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• f1 E-mail: karen.whiting@which.net