What is palsy
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Understanding Palsy: A Focus on Cerebral Palsy
Definition and Classification of Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a term used to describe a group of motor disorders that originate from brain malfunctions occurring early in life. These disorders are characterized by motor impairment due to non-progressive brain lesions or abnormalities1 2 4. CP is not a specific diagnosis but rather an umbrella term that encompasses various cerebral disorders leading to childhood motor impairment1 4. The condition is defined by abnormalities in muscle tone, movement, and motor skills, which are attributed to early brain injury or interference3 7.
Epidemiology and Risk Factors
CP is the most common cause of childhood-onset physical disability, affecting approximately 1 in 500 neonates globally, with an estimated prevalence of 17 million people worldwide5. The incidence of CP is higher among children born with low birth weight or prematurity, with multiple other factors such as maternal infections and multiple gestations also contributing to the risk6 9. The average frequency of CP is 2.08 per 1000 live births, but this rate increases significantly in children with a birth weight below 1500 grams6.
Clinical Manifestations and Diagnosis
The clinical manifestations of CP vary widely, including different types of movement disorders, degrees of functional ability, and affected body parts5. CP is typically classified based on the predominant motor syndrome, such as spastic hemiplegia, spastic diplegia, spastic quadriplegia, and dyskinetic forms9. Early diagnosis is crucial and can now be made before 6 months of corrected age using a combination of clinical history, neuroimaging, and standardized neurological assessments8. Tools like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination are highly predictive for detecting CP risk8.
Management and Treatment
Management of CP is multidisciplinary, involving neurological rehabilitation, physical and occupational therapies, and addressing co-morbidities such as epilepsy, cognitive impairments, and feeding challenges7 9. Treatment strategies aim to maximize function and participation in activities while minimizing factors that can exacerbate the condition5. Modern treatments for spasticity include botulinum toxin therapies and surgical techniques like rhizotomy6. Early intervention is essential to optimize neuroplasticity and function, prevent secondary complications, and enhance caregiver well-being8.
Conclusion
Cerebral palsy is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder resulting from early brain injury or interference. It is characterized by a wide range of motor impairments and associated conditions, requiring a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach for effective management. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical to improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals with CP.
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What constitutes cerebral palsy?
Cerebral palsy is an umbrella term for various cerebral disorders causing childhood motor impairment, but standardized inclusion criteria are crucial for meaningful comparisons and understanding of rates across time.
Highly CitedTERMINOLOGY AND CLASSIFICATION OF CEREBRAL PALSY
Cerebral palsy is defined as 'A disorder of movement and posture due to a defect or lesion of the immature brain', but its classification and terminology face challenges due to various medical uses and terminology.
Highly CitedFrom congenial paralysis to post-early brain injury developmental condition: Where does cerebral palsy actually stand?
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a developmental motor disorder caused by early brain injury, evolving from congenial paralysis to a post-early brain injury developmental condition.
Epidemiology of cerebral palsy.
The term cerebral palsy refers to a range of clinical symptoms, with related service requirements, resulting from lesions or abnormalities in the brain arising early in life. It is not a diagnosis; aetiology and pathology are variable. This article discusses the definition and differential classification of cerebral palsy, describes trends in its frequency over time stratified by associated variables, and briefly reviews the most recent findings concerning its aetiology.
Highly CitedCerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is a non-progressive brain injury that affects children, with no cure, but progress has been made in prevention and management strategies.
Highly CitedCerebral Palsy: Current Opinions on Definition, Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Classification and Treatment Options
Cerebral palsy is a complex condition with diverse causes, risk factors, and treatment options, often co-existing with other disorders.
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedCerebral Palsy: An Overview
Cerebral palsy is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by abnormalities in muscle tone, movement, and motor skills, and requires multidisciplinary management.
Highly CitedEarly, Accurate Diagnosis and Early Intervention in Cerebral Palsy: Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis of cerebral palsy using neuroimaging, neurological, and motor assessments is crucial for optimizing infant motor and cognitive plasticity, preventing secondary complications, and enhancing caregiver well-being.
Systematic Review
Very Rigorous JournalHighly CitedCerebral palsy in children: a clinical overview
Cerebral palsy is a common childhood disorder with a high incidence of 2-3 per 1,000 live births, and early diagnosis and multidisciplinary team approach are crucial for effective management.
Highly CitedCerebral palsy: what parents and doctors want to know
Cerebral palsy affects movement development in different ways, and its impact on children and adults can vary significantly.
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