neuro report for pediatric cp patient

Children with CP exhibit a wide variety of symptoms, including: lack of muscle coordination when performing voluntary movements (ataxia); stiff or tight muscles and exaggerated reflexes (spasticity);

Full Answer

What is included in the evaluation of children with cerebral palsy?

The most important aspect in the initial clinical evaluation of a child with CP is the medical and surgical history of the child. The history includes information regarding the birth, developmental milestones, other associated medical problems, surgical history, ongoing medications, and physiotherapy treatment.

How is muscle strength assessed in children with cerebral palsy (CP)?

In children with CP, the reduced ability to control and isolate movements provides great hindrance in muscle strength assessment. The typical scale for muscle group selectivity is given as follows:

How is cerebral palsy (CP) diagnosed?

Early diagnosis is possible based on a combination of clinical history, use of standardized neuromotor assessment and findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); however, in most clinical settings CP is more reliably recognized by 2 years of age.

When will my child need physical therapy for cerebral palsy?

A diagnosis is often made before a child is 18 months old. Because limitations on motor skills vary significantly among children with Cerebral Palsy, it is possible that a child may not require physical therapy.

How does a neurologist check for cerebral palsy?

Specialists might suggest brain imaging tests, such as x-ray computed tomography (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An electroencephalogram (EEG), genetic testing, or metabolic testing, or a combination of these, also might be done. CP generally is diagnosed during the first or second year after birth.

How do you assess a CP patient?

Cerebral palsy assessments can include:Motor Skills Tests: A check of the child's fine and gross motor skills. ... Imaging Tests: Brain imaging tests, such as an MRI, Computerized Tomography (CT), cranial ultrasound or Electroencephalogram (EEG).More items...•

What is the hallmark of cerebral palsy?

The hallmark signs of cerebral palsy are disturbances of movement and/or posture. These symptoms are usually noticed in individuals between the ages of 3 months to about 2 years old.

What is the most common type of abnormal tone seen in children with CP?

The most common type of CP is spastic CP. Spastic CP affects about 80% of people with CP. People with spastic CP have increased muscle tone. This means their muscles are stiff and, as a result, their movements can be awkward.

How do I examine my childs CP?

The first and most important part in the examination of a child with CP is observing the gait when the child walks into the consultation room. Gait analysis can be done with different techniques such as observational gait analysis, videographic gait analysis, and instrumented 3D gait analysis.

What are differential diagnosis for cerebral palsy?

The differential diagnosis of cerebral palsy includes metabolic and genetic disorders. The goals of treatment are to improve functionality and capabilities toward independence.

Does cerebral palsy show on MRI?

Can an MRI Help Diagnose Cerebral Palsy? Yes, an MRI can help medical professionals diagnose Cerebral Palsy. Cerebral Palsy is often believed to be caused by injuries to the brain at or near childbirth.

Does cerebral palsy affect speech?

Some children with cerebral palsy have difficulty controlling the muscles in their face, throat, neck and head. This can lead to troubles with speech, chewing and swallowing. It can also cause drooling and affect overall ability to interact and learn.

What part of brain is damaged in cerebral palsy?

Cerebral palsy affects the motor area of the brain's outer layer (called the cerebral cortex), the part of the brain that directs muscle movement. In some cases, the cerebral motor cortex hasn't developed normally during fetal growth.

What are the 5 types of cerebral palsy?

There are several different types of cerebral palsy — spastic, ataxic, athetoid, hypotonic, and mixed cerebral palsy. These conditions are classified based on mobility limitations and affected body parts. Each type can vary in severity, symptoms, and treatment.

Is cerebral palsy a neurological condition?

The term cerebral palsy refers to a group of neurological disorders that appear in infancy or early childhood and permanently affect body movement, muscle coordination, and balance. CP affects the part of the brain that controls muscle movements.

What is high tone in cerebral palsy?

High muscle tone, or hypertonia, is a condition that causes tight muscles and stiff or rigid movements. It is especially common in cerebral palsy patients. Symptoms of high muscle tone include loss of function and limited range of motion, causing a child to have issues properly sitting or standing up.

Developmental Monitoring

Developmental Screening

Developmental and Medical Evaluations

• The goal of a developmental evaluation is to diagnose the specific type of disorder that affects a child. To evaluate movement or motor delays, the doctor will look closely at the child’s motor skills, muscle tone, reflexes, and posture, and take a careful medical history from the parents. The doctor will try to rule out other disorders that could ...

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