Cerebral palsy in children in north-eastern Poland

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify antenatal, intrapartum and neonatal risk factors for cerebral palsy (CP) among babies. Antenatal, intrapartum, and neonatal events were compared between 204 children with CP born between 1983 to 2000 and 206 controls, children matched by birth weight, gestational age, and sex via a retrospective case-control method. Antenatal, intrapartum and neonatal factors were expressed as odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Multiple logistic regression was conducted, entering only those variables found to be significant at the bivariate level. Factors associated with an increased risk of CP identified as antenatal and intrapartum risk factors were abruptio placenta, pre-labour rupture of membranes, prematurity, preterm labour, cesarean section and low birth weight (< 2500 gram). Respiratory distress syndrome, prolonged ventilation, septicemia, meningitis, hyperbilirubinemia, neonatal seizures, and severe cranial ultrasound abnormality were associated with an increased risk of CP in the neonatal period. In the logistic regression models prematurity and Apgar scores ≤ 4 at 1st min were significantly associated with an increased risk of CP. Several antenatal, intrapartum and neonatal risk factors for CP among preterm and term babies are responsible for the etiology of CP. Our findings are in agreement with reports from Western countries. (J Pediatr Neurol 2004; 2(2): 79–84).

Keywords

neonatal - risk factors - cerebral palsy