Evaluation of Executive Functions in Children With Cochleovestibular Deficit

Evaluation of Executive Functions in Children With Cochleovestibular Deficit

Vestibular system activity supports many functions ranging from gaze stabilization and postural control to high-level cortical functions involving spatial cognition, body perception, verticality perception, orientation, navigation, and spatial memory. Few studies have assessed the impact of a vestibular deficit on executive functions taking into account the simultaneous existence of sensorineural deafness in a child population. The BRIEF questionnaire (Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function) allows a parental assessment of executive functions and is validated from the age of 5. Children were recruited from a pediatric population followed in the Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) department for audio-vestibular assessment and BRIEF questionnaire was completed by the accompanying parent.

Vestibular system activity supports many functions ranging from gaze stabilization and postural control to high-level cortical functions involving spatial cognition, body perception, verticality perception, orientation, navigation, and spatial memory. Few studies have assessed the impact of a vestibular deficit on executive functions taking into account the simultaneous existence of sensorineural deafness in a child population. The BRIEF questionnaire (Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function) allows a parental assessment of executive functions and is validated from the age of 5. Children were recruited from a pediatric population followed in the Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) department for audio-vestibular assessment and BRIEF questionnaire was completed by the accompanying parent.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patient aged ≥ 5 years < 18 years with vestibulopathy confirmed during an ENT consultation
• Affiliated to the social security system
• Holders of parental authority and Patients informed and not opposed to participating in the research
• Mastery of the French language by patients and their parents

Exclusion Criteria:

• Refusal to participate
• Existence of another neurodevelopmental pathology or specific cognitive disorder