Cerebral palsy: defining the problem

Michael I Shevell; John B Bodensteiner

doi:10.1016/j.spen.2004.01.001

Cerebral palsy: defining the problem

Semin Pediatr Neurol. 2004 Mar;11(1):2-4. doi: 10.1016/j.spen.2004.01.001.

Authors

Michael I Shevell¹, John B Bodensteiner

Affiliation

¹ Department of Neurology-Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

PMID: 15132247
DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2004.01.001

Abstract

The term "cerebral palsy" has had varied meanings over the past century. This article presents the current consensus definition that best captures the core elements of this heterogeneous entity. Elements comprising the components of the consensus definition are elaborated upon to provide clarity. Areas of remaining lack of consensus, mostly reflecting the timing of diagnosis and the exclusion of various etiologic entities are highlighted.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

MeSH terms

Cerebral Palsy / diagnosis
Cerebral Palsy / epidemiology
Cerebral Palsy / physiopathology*
Child, Preschool
Cognition Disorders / etiology*
Female
Fetal Diseases
Humans
Infant
Infant, Newborn
Male
Pregnancy