Cerebral Palsy
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Cerebral Palsy
| Name: Cerebral Palsy |
| Also known as: Spastic |
| Brain condition causing abnormal uncontrolled muscle spasms. |
Causes of Cerebral Palsy
Usually due to abnormal development of the brain before birth, or rarely to brain damage around the time of birth because the baby is deprived of oxygen for several minutes. |
Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
Varies dramatically from one patient to another depending on area of brain damaged. Some have slight difficulty in controlling one limb, others may be unable to talk clearly, yet others may be totally unable to care for themselves in any way. Mental functioning may be completely normal, or there may be significant mental retardation. |
Tests for Cerebral Palsy
Electroencephalograms (EEG) which measure brain waves, electromyelograms (EMG) which measure the electrical conduction in muscles, and CT scans of the brain and spine may be abnormal. Blood tests are usually normal. |
Treatment for Cerebral Palsy
Most help comes from teams of nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers and volunteers. Medications may be used to treat skin, intestinal and arthritic complications. Operations to correct deformities and release spasm in limbs can complement medications which reduce the uncontrollable twitching that may occur. Paramedical staff can teach the patient how to control an unwilling body. Emotional and psychiatric support is often necessary.
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Complications of Cerebral Palsy of its treatment
Often associated with epilepsy due to brain damage. High incidence of arthritis, pressure ulcers, chest infections and peptic ulcers. May be resultant emotional and social problems. |
Likely Outcome of Cerebral Palsy
No cure. Some symptoms can be eased. Life expectancy less than average. |
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