Cerebral palsy (cerebral palsy) is a group of chronic motor and postural disorders that are caused by brain damage that occurs at an early age, usually before three years of age. Cerebral palsy is a consequence of damage to the central nervous system, which controls movement and coordination of the body.
What types of cerebral palsy are there?
Cerebral palsy is classified depending on the signs that the child has. Types of cerebral palsy:
- spastic cerebral palsy. This is the most common type of cerebral palsy and is characterized by increased muscle tone (spasticity). A child with spastic cerebral palsy may have stiff and clumsy movements. Spastic cerebral palsy can be unilateral (when one side of the body is damaged) or bilateral (when both sides of the body are damaged);
- dyskinetic cerebral palsy. This type of cerebral palsy involves involuntary movements and postures that can be unpredictable and uncontrollable. This may include atyxia (impaired coordination of movements), atydartia (difficulty starting movements) and athetosis (involuntary smooth movements of the limbs and face);
- ataxic cerebral palsy. In this type of cerebral palsy, coordination and balance are impaired. Children with ataxic cerebral palsy may have an unsteady gait, difficulty making precise movements, shaking, and difficulty controlling movements;
- mixed cerebral palsy. This is a form of cerebral palsy that combines characteristics of two or more types of cerebral palsy. For example, spastic-athetoid cerebral palsy may combine signs of spastic and dyskinetic cerebral palsy.
It is important to note that the classification of types of cerebral palsy can be more complex, and individual cases may have their own characteristics. For a specific diagnosis of cerebral palsy, the doctor will conduct a more detailed examination and determine the characteristics and types of cerebral palsy based on the symptoms and clinical data of the individual child.
What are the causes of cerebral palsy?
Among the causes of the development of cerebral palsy, prenatal problems are identified, including: abnormalities in brain development, genetic disorders, intrauterine infections, and prematurity. Other causes of cerebral palsy:
- asphyxia (lack of oxygen). When oxygen supply to the brain is limited during childbirth, there is a risk of brain damage and the development of cerebral palsy;
- birth injury. Mechanical damage to a child’s head during childbirth can lead to brain damage and cerebral palsy;
- head injury. Head trauma in early childhood, such as an accident, fall, or shock, can cause brain damage;
- brain inflammation. Viral or bacterial infections of the brain, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can cause cerebral palsy.
Exposure of the brain to toxic substances, such as certain medications or substances, may be associated with the development of cerebral palsy. It is important to note that each case of cerebral palsy is unique, and in some cases the cause may remain unclear. Diagnosis and determination of the cause of cerebral palsy may require a comprehensive medical examination and consultation with specialists.
How is cerebral palsy diagnosed?
Diagnosis of cerebral palsy (CP) usually involves a comprehensive approach, including medical and neurological evaluation, as well as additional tests. Here are some of the methods that can be used in diagnosing cerebral palsy:
- medical history and physical examination. The doctor will conduct a detailed discussion of the child’s medical history, including information about the birth, the child’s development, and symptoms that the parents notice. A physical examination will help identify signs and symptoms consistent with cerebral palsy;
- neurological assessment. The neurologist will evaluate the child’s nervous system, including motor skills, reflexes, muscle tone and coordination;
- educational assessment. Child development specialists, such as a pediatric neuropsychologist or educational specialist, can evaluate a child’s development in a variety of areas, including cognitive, language, and motor skills;
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) of the brain. These methods can help identify structural abnormalities or damage to the brain;
- electroencephalography (EEG). An EEG records the electrical activity of the brain and can help identify epileptic activity or other disorders;
- ultrasound examination of the brain. Ultrasound can be used in infants to evaluate brain structure and function;
- laboratory research. Some laboratory tests may be done to rule out other possible causes of your child’s symptoms.
Diagnosing cerebral palsy can be complex and may require consultation with several specialists, such as a pediatrician, neurologist, occupational therapist, or geneticist. Early detection and diagnosis of cerebral palsy are important for the initiation of timely treatment and rehabilitation.
How is cerebral palsy treated in a child?
Several different medications may be prescribed for children with cerebral palsy (CP), depending on each child’s specific symptoms and needs. Here are some of the possible medications that can be used in the treatment of cerebral palsy:
- muscle relaxants. These medications may be used to reduce muscle tone (spasticity) and relieve symptoms associated with increased muscle tension;
- antiepileptic drugs. If a child with cerebral palsy has epileptic seizures, the doctor may prescribe antiepileptic drugs to control their frequency and intensity;
- iotulinum toxin (Botox). Botulinum toxin can be injected into muscles to temporarily reduce spasticity and improve limb function. This can help improve mobility and make everyday tasks easier;
- painkillers. Painkillers may be used to relieve pain and discomfort associated with muscle cramps and spasticity;
- other drugs. In some cases, other medications may be prescribed, such as drugs to improve cognitive function, vasodilators to improve blood flow to the brain, and other medications based on the child’s specific needs.
It is important to note that medications can be part of a comprehensive treatment for cerebral palsy, which includes physical therapy, speech therapy and other rehabilitation activities. Specific medications and their dosage should be prescribed by a doctor based on the individual needs and condition of the child.
What complications can cerebral palsy cause?
Cerebral palsy (CP) can cause various complications that can affect the child’s physical, mental and social well-being. Some of the main complications of cerebral palsy include:
- limited movement. Cerebral palsy can lead to reduced mobility and limited motor capabilities of the child. This may make it difficult to carry out daily tasks and activities such as walking, dressing, feeding and personal hygiene;
- deformities and contractures. Increased muscle tone (spasticity), characteristic of cerebral palsy, can lead to joint deformities and the development of contractures (constant contraction of muscles and joints). This can lead to changes in posture and limitation of joint movements;
- skeletal damage. Uneven distribution of load on the skeleton due to limited movement can lead to deformities of bones and joints, as well as an increased risk of fractures;
- speech and communication problems. Cerebral palsy can affect speech and communication development. The child may have difficulty articulating, understanding, and pronouncing words and expressing thoughts and ideas;
- psychological and emotional problems. Limited movement and other problems caused by cerebral palsy can affect the child’s psychological well-being. He may experience stress, low self-esteem, social isolation and difficulty communicating with peers;
- problems with organs and systems. In some cases, cerebral palsy can cause problems with the function of organs and systems such as vision, hearing, heart, breathing and digestion;
- developmental delay. Cerebral palsy can cause developmental delays in a variety of areas, including motor, language, cognitive and social skills.
It is important to note that not all children with cerebral palsy will have all of these complications. Each case of cerebral palsy is unique, and complications may vary depending on the type and severity of the disease, as well as the individual characteristics of each child. Early detection, medical support and rehabilitation measures can help manage complications and improve the quality of life of children with cerebral palsy.