ESPE Abstracts

Background: Turner Syndrome (TS) is commonly complicated by otological problems, of which middle ear infections, conductive and sensorineural hearing losses are most frequent. Middle ear infection and hearing loss, isolated or in combination, have putative roles in balance disturbance and may be related to the increased fracture risk exhibited in TS in adulthood. Our aim was to both establish the prevalence of balance problems in TS during childhood and explore factors which may be implicated in aetiology.

Methods: Girls, aged 6-18 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of TS, were invited to complete an online questionnaire, using an online platform created by the Turner Syndrome Support Society UK. Consent and assent were obtained in all those who agreed to participate. The Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 Checklist, modified to include additional questions addressing hearing, ear infection, visual problems, dizziness, previous fracture, motion sickness or support needs, was completed by girls and parent/guardian together.

Results: 9 girls responded (mean age 10.3 years, range 6.25 - 16). 7/9 girls were assessed as having movement difficulty on basis of their responses. 6/9 (67%) had hearing problems, 4/9 (44%) ear infections, 3/9 (33%) had visual problems and 2/9 (22%) had additional support needs, respectively. None of the respondents offered a history of dizziness, motion sickness or previous fracture. The 4 girls reporting ear infection also reported hearing problems. 4/9 (44%) girls considered themselves to have movement difficulty.

Discussion: Movement difficulty in girls with TS is common and has implications on activities of daily living and attaining developmental milestones. We were unable to draw any conclusion on those factors which may be related to balance disturbance in TS and this requires further research.