Abstract
Objective To measure the salivary flow rate, osmolality, electrolyte and total protein concentrations in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). Design Thirty-eight individuals with CP were divided according to the neuromotor abnormality type (total, spastic and dyskinectic) and compared to 22 nondisabled children (control group). Whole saliva was collected under slight suction. The salivary parameters studied were salivary flow rate, osmolality, sodium, potassium, chloride and total protein concentrations. Results CP individuals, with both neuromotor abnormality types (spastic and dyskinectic), presented an increase in salivary osmolality, total protein, potassium and chloride concentrations compared to the control group ( p < 0.05). Moreover, a reduction in salivary flow rate was verified in spastic individuals ( p < 0.05). Conclusion The reduction in salivary flow rate and increase in osmolality, total protein and electrolyte concentrations of saliva from cerebral palsy individuals could be caused by hypohydration status.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
