Cerebral Palsy Research

Biomedical research has led to better prevention of cerebral palsy and also to better diagnosis and treatment of people with CP.  About 70 percent of cerebral palsy occurs prior to birth; 20 percent occurs in the birthing process; and 10 percent occurs during the first two years of life. Risk factors have been identified in each of these situations, and include intrauterine infection, bleeding in the brain, seizures, breathing and circulation problems, and stroke, trauma or other causes of damage to the brain of the unborn baby. Certain conditions known to cause cerebral palsy include rubella (German measles) and jaundice; these can now be prevented or treated.

Low birth-weight babies are 100 times more likely to develop CP than normal weight infants. Scientists are looking for ways to reduce this risk factor, including a closer look at the role of tobacco, alcohol, prescription drugs (e.g., antidepressants), environmental toxins, etc.

The role of cytokines is an active research area. Cytokines are chemical messages that regulate the metabolism of a cell and other tissues and influence their activity (i.e., activate immune system cells). Cytokines, released in response to bacterial invasion, low levels of oxygen (hypoxia), and decreased blood flow (ischemia), play a role in the cascade of events that lead to developmental brain injury; their early detection can be important in preventing brain damage in newborns.

Better brain imaging and gait analysis has led to better physical, psychological and behavioral therapies. Medications, surgery and braces can often improve nerve and muscle coordination, help treat secondary medical problems and reduce deformities. Physical therapy is widely used to manage cerebral palsy; evidence is emerging that will help doctors or parents choose the best approach.