Prognostic value of brain abnormalities for cognitive functioning in cerebral palsy: A prospective cohort study

IntroductionBrain abnormalities in cerebral palsy (CP) are known to relate motor outcome; however, their association with cognitive functioning is less clear.Aim of the study1) To investigate prognostic value brain for functioning; 2) explore added variables across ICF domains: function, epilepsy, gestational age, birthweight and educational level parents.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed MRI scans 75 children CP (GMFCS I–V, 36% born preterm), as part a longitudinal study. classification: qualitative classification abnormality pattern semi-quantitative grading extent damage. Cognitive functioning, measured non-verbal intelligent quotient (IQ), was dichotomized into ‘impaired cognition’ (IQ ≤ 70) ‘normal’ > 70). Multivariable logistic regression produced odds ratios (OR) 95% confidence interval (C.I.) risk factors impaired cognition.ResultsOverall, 27% tested participants had IQ below 70 classified ‘having cognition’. At young higher degree white matter damage (OR 1.6, C.I. 0.97–2.67) more severe GMFCS 3.2, 1.70–5.98) cognition at school-age (4–7 years age). This model correctly predicts 89% cases. Brain alone presence 71% cases.InterpretationBrain characteristics age can each help identify school together have strong predictive value.