Visual Impairment and Functional Classification in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Background  Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common motor impairment in childhood and often accompanied by a broad spectrum of comorbidities. Data are sparse concerning visual impairment (VI) and functional classification among CP children. Objective  The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence of VI among children with CP and to investigate a possible association between VI and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and the Bimanual Fine Motor Function (BFMF). Methods  In this hospital-based study, records of 200 children with CP aged 2 to 17 years were reviewed. Results  Overall, VI was found in 59.5% of children with CP. Prevalence of VI was higher when compared with non-CP children. A correlation between GMFCS as well as BFMF and severity of VI was found. Children with severe CP were at greater risk for severe VI, especially cerebral VI compared with children with mild CP. Conclusion  VI is a significant problem in children with CP and is correlated with motor function. Children with CP should undergo detailed ophthalmologic and orthoptic assessment to enable early intervention.