Cerebral Palsy w/out lesions?

my daughter carries all the symptoms of cerebral palsy...textbook definition...but her mri came back normal...is it possible she could have cerebral palsy even though there is no abnormalities in her brain?

[Dr_Smita_S]

Hi

The diagnosis of cerebral palsy is classically based on the patient's history and physical examination. Once diagnosed with cerebral palsy, further diagnostic tests such as CT and MRI scan are optional. Studies have revealed that 11% children with CP were found to have normal MRIs.

Doctors diagnose cerebral palsy by testing an infant’s motor skills and looking carefully at the infant’s medical history. They check for slow development, abnormal muscle tone, and unusual posture. Additionally, a number of medical tests such as MRIs, CTs, and ultrasounds can help determine the cause of cerebral palsy as well as rule out other disorders.

An abnormal CT or MRI can reveal treatable conditions, such as hydrocephalus, porencephaly, arterio-venous malformations or may indicate a high likelihood of associated conditions such as epilepsy.

Further information about the causes of CP could help identify preventive strategies.

Regards

[wright306]

Absolutely. My daughter has mild Athetoid CP and her MRI came back normal as well. The way it was explained to me was that, the diagnosis comes from clinical exam and medical history and the MRI is to rule out any other cause, and possibly show damage. Research shows that 11-12% of children with CP have a normal MRI, and in some cases the damage is sometimes detected in later MRI scans but not visible in earlier ones.

Do you have a follow up appointment with a neurologist? Has anyone diagnosed her?