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Cerebral palsy — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateNeurology and neurodevelopmentCerebral palsyRACP Paediatrics

A 14-month-old born at 27 weeks is late to sit and pulls to stand on toes. Examination shows increased tone in both legs, brisk knee reflexes and scissoring when held upright, with relatively preserved hand use. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Spastic diplegic cerebral palsy

Spastic diplegic cerebral palsy is typical after extreme prematurity, with leg-predominant spasticity and relatively preserved upper limb function. Duchenne muscular dystrophy causes weakness rather than brisk reflexes and scissoring. Early diagnosis allows surveillance for hips, nutrition, vision and functional therapy needs.

Reference: RACP Knowledge Guides; Australian cerebral palsy resources