Clinical spectrum of cerebral palsy in north India--an analysis of 1,000 cases.

One thousand children with cerebral palsy (CP) were reviewed to study their clinical profile, etiological factors and associated problems. Spastic quadriplegia constituted the predominant group (61 per cent), followed by spastic diplegia (22 per cent). Dyskinetic CP was present in 7.8 per cent of the cases. Acquired CP, particularly secondary to nervous system infections, constituted a significant proportion of cases. The clinical spectrum of CP is different in developing countries compared with developed countries. Associated problems were present in a majority (75 per cent) of cases, of which mental retardation was the commonest (72.5 per cent). Comprehensive assessment and early management of these problems are emphasized, which can minimize the extent of disabilities.