Impact of early diagnosis of cerebral palsy on neurodevelopmental outcomes: a systematic review of cohort studies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18210440Keywords:
Cerebral Palsy, Early Diagnosis;, Neuroplasticity, Child Development, Cohort StudiesAbstract
Introduction: Cerebral Palsy (CP) requires early diagnosis to take advantage of the window of neural plasticity, although late detection is still common. Objective: To analyze the impact of early diagnosis on neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with CP through cohort studies. Methods: Systematic review based on the PRISMA protocol, with searches in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and LILACS databases (2013-2023). Eighteen cohort studies that evaluated diagnosis before six months of corrected age were selected. Results and Discussion: The combination of Generalized Movement Assessment (GMA) with neonatal Magnetic Resonance Imaging demonstrated diagnostic accuracy greater than 95%. It was shown that early active and task-specific intervention results in better motor (GMFM) and cognitive scores compared to late intervention. In addition to functional gains and reduction of secondary deformities, early diagnosis reduces parental anxiety and strengthens family engagement in the rehabilitation process, optimizing the home environment for stimulation. Conclusion: Early diagnosis is the determining pillar for maximizing the functional potential and quality of life of the child. The need for agile neonatal screening protocols to ensure equitable access to specialized treatment is reiterated.
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