Experience with botulinum toxin in the treatment of cerebral palsy.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effect of botulinum toxin on dynamic spasticity and dystonic posturing in children with cerebral palsy.


METHODS
Assessment and documentation of the motor disability of children with cerebral palsy followed by injection of botulinum toxin into selected muscle groups. Reassessment of motor function after injection.


METHODS
Fifteen children with cerebral palsy: 5 with dynamic spasticity, 5 with dystonia and 5 with a mixed picture.


RESULTS
On a standard scoring system, 13 of the children showed improved function at reassessment.


CONCLUSIONS
Intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin is effective in the treatment of selected children with spastic and dystonic forms of cerebral palsy. Improvement is not permanent, but the injection can be repeated.
Arens
L J
LJ
Institute of Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital.
Leary
P M
PM
Goldschmidt
R B
RB
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D018680:Cholinergic Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D011187:Posture
D018680:Cholinergic Antagonists; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A