Neurodevelopmental Outcomes After Neonatal Periventricular Leukomalacia: Findings from a Prospective Longitudinal Study
1Dr. Muhammad Hamza Khan, 2Dr. Muhammad Gohar Shahroz, 3Dr. Fazeela Fiza, 4Dr. Qasim Zia, 5Dr. Esha Fatima, 6Dr. Hamza Javed
1Consultant Neurophysician, Nishtar Medical University, Multan
2Ibne Siena Hospital & Research Institute, MMDC, Multan
3Chandka Medical College, Larkana
4Ibne Siena Hospital & Research Institute, MMDC, Multan
5University of Child Health Sciences and the Children’s Hospital, Lahore
6Ibne Siena Hospital & Research Institute, MMDC, Multan
*Corresponding Author: Dr. Qasim Zia, Ibne Siena Hospital & Research Institute, MMDC, Multan
Submission: 10 May 2026 | Acceptance: 26 June | Publication: 26 July
Vol: 16/03. Pp 261-267
Abstract
Background: The peri ventricular leukomalacia (PVL) condition is a significant predictor of neuro developmental impairment in the long-term of the preterm babies. Despite the advance in the field of neonatal care, neuro developmental patterns of children with the condition are to be investigated further.
Objective: To determine the neuro developmental outcome at long-term in neonates with PVL using the assistance of a prospective longitudinal study design.
Methods: Both neonates who had a diagnosis of PVL examined by either cranial ultrasonography or MRI were followed to the age of 5 years. Motor, cognitive and behavioral measures were measured by the use of neurodevelopment.
Results: The study found that long-term neurodevelopmental impairment which included motor impairment, cognitive delay and speech-language difficulties was significantly correlated with severity of PVL.
Conclusion: PVL is a supreme condition that predetermines negative neurodevelopment. Early diagnosis, systemic follow-up and intervention measures can be used to relieve long-term disability.
Keywords: Neurodevelopmental outcome, preterm babies, periventricular leukomalacia, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, longitudinal study.