Neurologic and Musculoskeletal Surveillance in Adults with Cerebral Palsy

Neurologic Surveillance

The American Academy of Neurology recommends monitoring for epilepsy progression or new seizure activity using standard antiepileptic management protocols, as epilepsy affects 35% of individuals with CP and may evolve in adulthood 1

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends continuing hip surveillance with anteroposterior pelvic radiographs every 6-12 months to detect progressive hip displacement, which affects 28% of individuals with CP and can worsen in adulthood 1, 3
Comprehensive pain assessment should be implemented at every visit, as three in four adults with CP experience chronic pain, requiring pharmacological therapy for ongoing pain and environmental interventions 1, 2

Specialist sleep assessments should be conducted and disorders treated before secondary complications emerge, using sleep hygiene, spasticity management, melatonin (2.5-10 mg), and gabapentin (5 mg/kg) 1, 3
Screening for behavioral disorders and mental health conditions is necessary, as 26% of individuals with CP have behavioral disorders that persist into adulthood 1

Weight should be monitored regularly and swallowing safety assessed if pneumonia history exists, as pneumonia remains the leading cause of death in adults with CP and severe physical disability elevates malnutrition risk 1, 2

Ongoing vision and hearing assessments should be provided with standard accommodations as needed, as sensory impairments impact quality of life and participation 1, 3