Nutritional status of a population with moderate-severe cerebral palsy: Beyond the weight

Abstract

IntroductionCerebral palsy (CP) is the most frequent cause of motor disability in the paediatric age. The aim of this article is the study of the nutritional status of patients with CP followed-up in a reference hospital, as well as the relationship between neurological and nutritional state. Material and methodsA cross-sectional, observational, descriptive and analytical study was conducted on a sample consisting of 4–15 year old patients with CP with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) grades III–IV–V, from a specialised paediatric hospital reference area. An interview (collection of general data, medications and nutritional habits), anthropometric study and bioimpedance (BIA) measurements were carried out. ResultsThe study included 69 patients (recruitment 84.15%), with a mean age of 10.46±0.43 years, and 50.7% females. The distribution according to GMFCS scale was: grade III (36.2%), grade IV (29%), and grade V (34.8%). According to weight for height: moderate malnutrition 21.8% (grade V: 33.3%), severe malnutrition 5.8% (grade V: 12.6%), overweight/obesity 23.2% (grade III: 24%, grade IV: 35%). Adequate level of lean mass for height: grade III (36%), grade IV (55%), and grade V (16.7%). Fat excess: grade III (36%), grade IV (40%), and grade V (29.2%). Fat mass comparison: BIA 6.89±0.64kg versus anthropometry 5.56±4.43kg. ConclusionsIn CP grade GMFCS V, the weight deficit associated with a decrease in lean body mass is common. Patients with CP grades GMFCS III–IV have a significant prevalence of overweight/obesity. Anthropometry is a useful tool for nutritional assessment in children with CP, although fat levels could be underestimated.