Neuropediatrics 1994; 25(4): 201-207
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1073022
Original article

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Evolution of Early Hemiplegic Signs in Full-Term Infants with Unilateral Brain Lesions in the Neonatal Period: A Prospective Study

Helen  Bouza1 , Mary  Rutherford1 , Dominique  Acolet1 , Jacqueline M. Pennock2 , Lilly M. S. Dubowitz1
  • 1Department of Paediatrics and Neonatal Medicine, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London W12 0HS, UK
  • 2the Robert Steiner Magnetic Resonance Unit, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London W12 0HS, UK
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
19 March 2008 (online)

Abstract

Neonates with unilateral hemispheric lesions detected by imaging in the newborn period are at risk for developing hemiplegia. Five full-term infants with predominantly unilateral lesions identified by cranial ultrasound in the neonatal period and confirmed with MRI were examined clinically at regular intervals in order to establish the development, incidence and evolution of later hemiplegia and the evolution of hemiplegic signs.

In the neonatal period the infants had either a normal examination or subtle transient abnormalities. Abnormalities were not seen until 6 months of age in infants who developed hemiplegia. The number of hemiplegic signs in each child increased with time, the earlier the signs appeared the more severe the hemiplegia. In some infants deterioration with loss of preexisting skills was observed.

At 24 months two of the infants were normal, one had a mild and two a moderate hemiplegia.

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