Impact of Computerized Neuropsychological Rehabilitation in a Patient with Sickle Cell Anemia and ADHD. Single-case Experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction. Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a genetic disease that causes a malforma-tion in red blood cells, making them more fragile and leading to their lysis. Due to their abnormal shape, they predispose to occlusive events in smaller blood vessels, including those in the central nervous system. Literature documents the presence of silent and non-silent cerebral infarctions associated with SCA, along with respective cognitive impairments. In recent years, cognitive impairment and a higher prevalence of neuro-developmental disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been reported in children with SCA who have not experienced ischemic brain events. Method. An experimental and prospective single-case study was conducted, con-sisting of a rehabilitation program using the CogniFit platform for cognitive training in attention and concentration. Measurements of attention and inhibitory control responses were taken during 45 sessions, using the Cognitive Assessment Battery for Attention (CAB-AT). Results. It was observed that the intervention had a significant impact on the attention component, which remained above the baseline even after discontinuing the intervention. However, no significant impact was found on inhibitory control. Conclusion. Although the intervention improved attention, it did not have the same effect on inhibitory control. Complementing rehabilitation with pharmaco-logical management and designing new studies involving heterogeneous popula-tions are recommended.