Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis
The diagnosis of cerebral palsy includes the consideration and monitoring of many factors, and may not be made until after the first or second years of development. A child’s brain and central nervous system have an amazing ability to recover completely, or partially, following injury – this sometimes leads to a delay in diagnosis. In addition, children develop at different rates, and motor skill difficulties can frequently be signs of other problems – misdirecting diagnosis. In most cases, an interdisciplinary team of medical professionals will be gathered to review the child’s strengths and weaknesses, test results, risk factors and medical history. Based on these numerous criteria, a diagnosis of cerebral palsy may be made.
Several tests can be used to assist in the diagnosis, and determine the severity of cerebral palsy:
- Intelligence tests often are administered to a child with CP to evaluate mental impairment;
- An electroencephalogram (EEG) traces electrical activity in the brain and can reveal patterns that suggest a seizure disorder;
- Imaging tests are helpful in diagnosing hydrocephalus, structural abnormalities, and tumors. This information can help the physician assess the child’s long-term prognosis;
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create pictures of the internal structures of the brain. This study is performed on older children. It defines abnormalities of white matter and motor cortex more clearly than other methods;
Cerebral palsy diagnosis depends on many factors, a team of medical professionals can make an accurate diagnosis, and assist in determining a long-term prognosis for the child. While a medical diagnosis can be determined, often what caused the cerebral palsy cannot be.
Parents of a child suffering with cerebral palsy should contact an experienced cerebral palsy lawyer to research the cause of their child’s condition. Haste is essential. Litigation may be the only way to receive compensation to which you may be entitled. Such compensation will likely include lost wages, medical bills, and/or financial compensation to heirs (in the case of a wrongful death).
Contact MyAdvocates so we can assist you in determining if you are entitled to receive compensation for the harm caused to you. Our physicians/attorneys will review your situation and inform you promptly as to whether you have a case.
