Article

AIM: To explore the value of demographic, environmental, and early clinical
characteristics in predicting functional communication in children with cerebral
palsy (CP) at school entry. METHOD: Data are from an Australian prospective
longitudinal study of children with CP. Children assessed at 18 to 24 and 48 to
60 months corrected age were included in the study. Functional communication was
classified at 48 to 60 months using the Communication Function Classification
System (CFCS). Predictive variables included communication skills at 18 to 24
months, evaluated using the Communication and Symbolic Behavioural Scales
Developmental Profile (CSBS-DP) Infant-Toddler Checklist. Early Gross Motor
Function Classification System (GMFCS), Manual Ability Classification System, and
motor type and distribution were evaluated by two physiotherapists. Demographic
and comorbid variables were obtained through parent interview with a
paediatrician or rehabilitation specialist. RESULTS: A total of 114 children (76
males, 38 females) were included in the study. At 18 to 24 months the mean
CSBS-DP was 84.9 (SD 19.0). The CFCS distribution at 48 to 60 months was
I=36(32%), II=25(22%), III=20(18%), IV=19(17%), and V=14(12%). In multivariable
regression analysis, only CSBS-DP (p<0.01) and GMFCS (p<0.01) at 18 to 24 months
were predictors of functional communication at school entry. INTERPRETATION: Body
structure and function and not environmental factors impact functional
communication at school entry in children with CP. This provides valuable
guidance for early screening, parent education, and future planning of
intervention programs to improve functional communication.
CI - (c) 2014 Mac Keith Press.

Langue : ANGLAIS