Amer, A., Sobeih, A., Hekal, H. (2024). Respiratory Complications in Children with Cerebral Palsy. Benha Medical Journal, 41(1), 233-245. doi: 10.21608/bmfj.2024.263581.2001
Al Rawhaa Amer; Ahmad Ata Sobeih; Heba Hamdy Hekal. "Respiratory Complications in Children with Cerebral Palsy". Benha Medical Journal, 41, 1, 2024, 233-245. doi: 10.21608/bmfj.2024.263581.2001
Amer, A., Sobeih, A., Hekal, H. (2024). 'Respiratory Complications in Children with Cerebral Palsy', Benha Medical Journal, 41(1), pp. 233-245. doi: 10.21608/bmfj.2024.263581.2001
Amer, A., Sobeih, A., Hekal, H. Respiratory Complications in Children with Cerebral Palsy. Benha Medical Journal, 2024; 41(1): 233-245. doi: 10.21608/bmfj.2024.263581.2001
Respiratory Complications in Children with Cerebral Palsy
1Professor of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
2Pediatric , Faculty of medicine , Benha University
3Pediatrics
Faculty of Medicine - Benha University
Abstract
Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) encompasses a range of movement and posture disorders arising from non-progressive brain lesions, often accompanied by various neurological and musculoskeletal issues. Respiratory complications, notably recurrent infections and respiratory failure, pose significant morbidity and mortality risks among individuals with CP. This study aimed to assess respiratory complications in 100 CP pediatric patients, investigating associated risk factors, the impact on morbidity and mortality, and clinical correlations. Methods: This study involved CP children aged 6 months to 16 years, admitted to two hospitals over a year. Detailed histories, clinical examinations, and investigations were conducted to evaluate respiratory problems, motor function, developmental milestones, and comorbidities. Classification systems for CP, such as Ingram’s, Hagberg’s, and GMFCS, were utilized. Results: Among the cohort, various respiratory issues were prevalent, including dysphagia, recurrent apnea, aspiration, and chest infections. A high frequency of comorbidities like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), epilepsy, bone deformities, and delayed development was observed. Patients with respiratory complications showed significantly higher rates of dysphagia, recurrent infections, GERD, and epilepsy, correlating with increased hospitalizations and mortality. Lower anthropometric measures and abnormal laboratory findings were also prominent in this group. Conclusion: Respiratory complications significantly impact morbidity and mortality in CP patients, with associations found between specific comorbidities and increased respiratory issues. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions addressing dysphagia, recurrent infections, and associated comorbidities to mitigate the burden of respiratory complications and improve outcomes in CP patients.