Relationship among Ocular Diseases, Developmental Levels, and Clinical Characteristics of Children with Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationships among vision problems, developmental levels, upper extremity functions, and qualities of life of children with cerebral palsy (CP). [Subjects] The study included 32 children, aged 4-15 years, diagnosed with diplegic type CP. [Methods] Hand function was evaluated using the Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) and the Bimanual Fine Motor Function (BFMF) scale, and the severity of CP was assessed using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). The developmental and mental capabilities of the children were evaluated using the Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory (ADSI) or the WISC-R test. An oculomotor examination was conducted for all patients. [Results] Positive correlations were found between GMFCS and BFMF, GMFCS and MACS, and MACS and BFMF scores (r=0.636; r=0.553; r=0.718, respectively). Significant correlations were found between upper extremity function, the severity of CP, the quality of life, and the general developmental level. There was no significant correlation between ocular disorders and clinical characteristics. [Conclusion] GMFCS, MACS, and BFMF may be useful for defining the functional status of children with CP, as they are easy, practical, and simple classification scales that conform to each other.