Motor Proficiency in Children With Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Purpose: Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder with associated musculoskeletal abnormalities, tumors, and developmental delays. The purpose of this study was to investigate and characterize the motor proficiency of children with NF1. Methods: Children with NF1 were assessed using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test (BOT 2) instrument. The NF1 group scores were compared with age and sex-matched test norms. Results: Twenty-six children participated in the study. The NF1 group had statistically significant lower scores (P < .05) for the total motor composite (Z = -1.62) and 7 of the 8 subtests. Nineteen percent (n = 5) scored in the average category, 54% (n = 14) scored in the below-average category, and 27% (n = 7) scored in the well-below-average category. Conclusions: Children with NF1 have significantly lower motor proficiency than the BOT 2 normative scores. The results indicate the BOT 2 is useful in identifying and characterizing delays in motor proficiency for children with NF1. (Pediatr Phys Ther 2010; 22: 344-348)