Cognitive outcomes at preschool age in very preterm infants with normal MRI findings at term-equivalent age: identification of a vulnerable subgroup

BMJ Paediatrics Open 2026 Open access

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Authors: Nina Volleritsch, Maria Sappler, Marlene Hammerl, Stephanie Mangesius, Ulrike Pupp Peglow, Elke Griesmaier, Ursula Kiechl‐Kohlendorfer, Vera Neubauer
DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2026-004774
Cited by: 1
References: 16

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Very preterm infants are at increased risk for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, even in the context of modern neonatal care. While MRI-detectable brain injury at term-equivalent age is a strong predictor of later cognitive impairment, the developmental trajectories of infants with normal MRI findings remain less well characterised. In particular, it is unclear to what extent perinatal and socio-environmental factors are associated with outcomes in this group. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 296 very preterm infants born

Fields of Study & Subjects

Neonatal and fetal brain pathology Infant Development and Preterm Care Anesthesia and Neurotoxicity Research

Publication details

Journal / source
BMJ Paediatrics Open
Publisher
BMJ
Volume
10
Issue
1
Pages
e004774–e004774
Publication date
1 July 2026
Language
EN