Tests to detect cerebral palsy in infants

For the diagnosis of cerebral palsy, an infant’s motor skills are tested which is done by observing his medical history. Many things are checked like slow development, abnormal muscle tone, and unusual posture. Tests like MRIs, CTs as well as ultrasounds are performed in order to capture pictures of the brain and determine what exactly the cause of trouble is. Some of the tests are conducted to determine the source of trouble.

Reflex test is conducted for the diagnosis. Reflexes are the movements which the body makes. For an instance when a baby is born, then he is held on its back and tilted in such a way that the legs are above the head and thus the baby extends its arms, which is termed as Moro reflex. A normal child would lose this reflex after 6 months, but a child suffering from cerebral palsy would retain this for a longer period.

Another test is termed as the Hand Preference Test. In this the doctor tests if the child uses a particular hand more often. Initially, during the first 12 months, babies do not show hand preference. However, in a child suffering from cerebral palsy, one hand is stronger thus he may show hand preference.

A CT scan is also conducted to analyze the situation. CT stands for Computed Tomography. It is basically an imaging technique in which X-rays are used to create a picture of the brain’s tissues as well as structures. As such any kind of problems like underdeveloped, abnormal cysts may get revealed.

MRI stands for Magnetic resonance imaging is another technique, which helps in carrying out brain imaging in order to identify the brain disorders. Instead of X rays, magnetic field as well as radio waves are used to map the areas of the brain. MRI is considered better than CT scan as it gives better pictures of the brain.

Sometimes, a doctor might order electroencephalogram or EEG. In this process, the electrodes are placed on the scalp for recording the natural electric currents in the brain. As such a seizure disclosure can be detected.

Intelligence tests are also conducted to know if the child suffering from cerebral palsy is mentally impaired. But due to the problems arising out of movement, sensation or speech in case of cerebral palsy, the child might not be able to perform well.

Vision tests are also conducted in case parents suspect there is a problem with the vision of the child. In this case an ophthalmologist might be consulted or in casing of hearing impairment, the audiologist may also be called in.It is really important that the doctor should make sure that the condition of the child is not deteriorating. Cerebral palsy is not progressive. However if the child is losing his motor skills then there might be other problems like genetic disease, muscle disease, metabolism disorder or tumor in the nervous system. In such cases it becomes essential to get check-ups done.

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