Structural neuroimaging in learning disability.

Abstract

Neuroimaging has proven useful in confirming diagnoses of certain neuropsychiatric conditions, but neuroimaging studies in learning disability are at an early stage. A review of recent structural neuroimaging research in relation to learning disability was carried out. Brain abnormalities can be detected in cases of idiopathic and non-idiopathic learning disability, but their significance is not clear due to discrepancies in study findings and the small cohorts involved. Although the role of structural neuroimaging in the assessment of people with learning disability is not clear, new magnetic resonance imaging technology holds great promise for future research.