Cerebral palsy diagnosis

Cerebral palsy is a neurological illness that affects patients who have suffered brain damage before or after birth, resulting in motor and posture disorders. It leads to changes in muscle tone, speech difficulties, coordination challenges, and delayed motor and intellectual development in children. Sometimes, it can also cause hearing and vision problems and epilepsy. First, the neurologist analyzes the patient's complaints, inquires about the pregnancy and birth, and assesses the baby's development in the first few months of life. During the examination, he will look for abnormal motor activity, muscle tone disorders, and developmental delays. Genetic and biochemical tests may help to identify cerebral palsy. To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor might prescribe:Electroencephalography records the activity of different cerebral parts and detects any abnormalities. MRI studies the brain's features and cerebral ventricles and identifies any changes or malformations, including optic nerve atrophy, hemorrhage foci, and hydrocephalus. These studies can differentiate cerebral palsy from other illnesses that share similar symptoms. In some cases, it may be recommended to consult with specialists such as ophthalmologists, orthopedists, psychiatrists, and other medical professionals.