Question
A ten-day-old infant was hospitalized due to fever and was diagnosed with intracranial hemorrhage and brain injury. The doctor did not provide further information upon discharge. The parents hope to understand what detailed examinations should be conducted if the child is at risk of developing cerebral palsy.
Answer
If the infant is premature and is still in hospital treatment, the severity of the brain injury is crucial. Mild intracranial hemorrhage usually does not affect future development. It is recommended to undergo an MRI scan before discharge. Early diagnosis of cerebral palsy mainly depends on the child’s growth and mental state, such as crying for no apparent reason, difficulty in breastfeeding, excessive quietness, or stiffness of the body when startled.