Cerebral palsy in central sudan

Abstract EN

Objectives : The aim of the study was to examine the possible etiologcial factors, the clinical types, and the consequences of cerebral palsy in Central Sudan.

Design: The study took place in Wad Medani Children's Teaching Hospital.

All children diagnosed as cerebral palsy between March 1997 and March 1999 were recruited for this study.

Children without a clear diagnosis and those below the age of 12 months were excluded.

Results: There were 153 patients: 92 were females and 61 were males.

The female to male ratio was 1.5:1.

Birth asphyxia accounted for 59 (38.6%) of cases.

Low birth weight accounted for 35 (22.9%) of cases.

The etiology was undetermined in 33 (21.6%) of cases.

Spastic cerebral palsy was found in 122 (79.7%) of the clinical typing).

Psychomotor delay was present in 48 (31.4%), and epilepsy was reported in 57 (37.3%).

Ocular problems were reported in 76 (49.7%); speech problems were reported in 54 (35.3%); and hearing problems were reported in 4 (2.0%).

Conclusion: The etiological factors of cerebral palsy are largely preventable in our region.

Improvement in antenatal, natal, and perinatal care is essential in the reduction of the incidence of cerebral palsy.