Question
A child grows slowly after birth, often has symptoms like drooling, staring blankly, loss of appetite, and unexplained crying. The child has never smiled and lacks facial expressions. What is pediatric cerebral palsy?
Answer
Pediatric cerebral palsy, also known as childhood cerebral palsy, refers to non-progressive brain damage caused by various reasons within the first month after birth. Its main clinical features are central motor impairment and abnormal posture. The manifestation of cerebral palsy varies due to the cause and type, but common early symptoms include weakness, reduced spontaneous movement, and fixed posture. If a child shows signs of being quiet, having a weak cry, or persistent crying after birth, along with abnormal muscle tone, such as abnormal angles, frog-like posture, or inverted U-shape posture, these may be early signs of cerebral palsy. Parents should closely observe their child’s behavior to detect and seek professional medical attention early on.