Background: Studies systematically delineating the characteristics of children with hemiplegic CP is not available from India

Aims and objectives: To determine the clinical, radiological characteristics and prevalence of co-morbid conditions in children with hemiplegic CP.

Methods: This is a single center cross-sectional study in tertiary care institute and rehabilitation centre. All children with cerebral palsy were screened for hemiplegic CP from January to December 2014. Clinical and demographic data was recorded using structured proforma. Gross motor function classification system, QUEST and Manual ability classification system were used to assess  motor function. Neuroimaging findings were classified into standard classification. Other co-morbidities like vision, hearing, drooling, feeding problems, reflux, epilepsy and cognition was assessed. Data was analyzed in SPSS.

Results: 70 children were enrolled. The median age was 50 (range 12 – 144) months. Difficulty in walking (35%) and reduced hand movements (33%) were common presenting complaints. 89% children were full term deliveries. Only 40% had history of perinatal asphyxia. Half of children had neonatal respiratory distress and/or seizures. 73% children were ambulatory and 47% of the children could handle most objects. MRI brain showed malformations in 11%, focal ischemic or hemorrhagic changes in 44% and periventricular white mater injury in 29%.  67% had malnutrition, 38% had epilepsy and 33% had vision impairment. Developmental score was abnormal in 33% children

Conclusions: Children with hemiplegic CP are a distinct cohort among children with CP with functionally good GMFCS and intellectual scores. Hence the focus of interventions should be to address the potentially correctable disabilities.