Facts on File Encyclopedia of Health and Medicine

pregnancy. The doctor may conduct diagnostic
imaging procedures such as COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
(CT) SCANand MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING(MRI) to
visualize the structures of the brain. An ELECTROEN-
CEPHALOGRAM(EEG) helps identify electrical irregu-
larities in the brain that may identify structural
abnormalities. Though none of these tests conclu-
sively diagnoses cerebral palsy, the tests help rule
out other possible causes of symptoms.
As the child grows older the symptoms of cere-
bral palsy often become unmistakable. Among
them are

• spasticity and contractures of the limbs


• inability to crawl or walk


• vision impairment


• hearing loss


• swallowing and speech difficulties


• SIALORRHEA(drooling)


• URINARY INCONTINENCE

The severity of symptoms does not worsen,
though symptoms may change over time. With

some forms of cerebral palsy, notably spastic

hemiplegic, symptoms may change from day to

day. Spasticity may develop into contractures.

However, the person’s overall neuromuscular sta-

tus remains unchanged. The doctor may conduct

repeated NEUROLOGIC EXAMINATION and diagnostic

procedures to monitor any changes in symptoms,

though generally can make a firm diagnosis when

the child is age three to five years.

Treatment Options and Outlook

Cerebral palsy is irreversible. Treatment targets

relieving symptoms and may include medications

to relieve spasticity (such as baclofen), tremors,

sialorrhea, and muscle tenseness. Many people

take combinations of medications tailored to their

specific needs and symptoms. People who have

severe spastic cerebral palsy may benefit from

injections of medication into the fluid around the

SPINAL CORD, which allows higher concentrations of

the medication to reach the NERVEcells than the

person could otherwise tolerate.

PHYSICAL THERAPYcan specifically target particu-

lar muscle groups and developmental delays, and

240 The Nervous System

KNOWN RISK FACTORS FOR CEREBRAL PALSY

Risk Factor Preventive Measures

maternal RUBELLA(viral INFECTION) rubella VACCINEbefore PREGNANCY

maternal TOXOPLASMOSIS(protozoan infection) avoid contact with cat feces (such as when cleaning a litter box or
working in an outdoor garden)
thoroughly cook pork and lamb

preterm delivery appropriate and consistent PRENATAL CARE
low birth weight appropriate nutrition
diligent management of DIABETES
avoid smoking
avoid drinking ALCOHOL

Rh incompatibility Rh screening before pregnancy
Rh serum to mother after birth of Rh-incompatible child to protect
future children

NEONATAL JAUNDICE PHOTOTHERAPY

head injury methods to reduce risks for falling
appropriate infant restraints in motor vehicles