Main description:

This third edition systematically reviews recent developments in the diagnosis and evidence-based treatment of cerebral palsy, a consequence of foetal and early infant brain damage resulting in lifelong disabilities with a range of clinical characteristics. The first part discusses the definition, aetiology, classification, imaging and neuropathology, while the second focuses on the management of the individual challenges that children with cerebral palsy face, such as spasticity, dyskinesia, feeding problems and scoliosis. Based on the diverse characteristics of cerebral palsy, children require care from various specialists, including neuro-paediatricians, orthopaedists, psychologists, epidemiologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. This work was written by an international team of such specialists, providing a comprehensive mix of perspectives and expertise.

Contents:

Cerebral palsy: a historical review.- Definition.- Epidemiology.- Neuropathology.- Aetiological factors.- Intrauterine infection.- Magnesium sulphate for prevention.- Early markers.- Clinical characteristics.- Early diagnosis.- Brain Imaging.- Ultrasonography.- Positrons-Emission-Tomography.- Physiotherapy.- Occupational therapy.- Pathophysiology of muscle.- Orthpaedic management.- Early developmental intervention.- Hip luxation.- Scoliosis.- Bone status.- Oral medication.- Management with Botulinum Neurotoxin A.- Intrathecal Baclofen.- Rhizotomy.- Comorbidities.- Epilepsies.- Visual impairment.- Gastrointestinal problems.- Long-term prognosis.- Quality of life.- Psychosocial problems.