RAPID CORRECTION OF WASTING IN CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Abstract

Severe cerebral palsy is often accompanied by wasting. The authors used standard methods for the correction of primary protein energy malnutrition in children with severe cerebral palsy. A randomized controlled trial was used to compare intensive nasogastric tube-feeding with the best oral feeding that could be achieved. Nasogastric feeding led to highly significant increases in weight. The changes in skinfold thickness and mid-arm muscle circumference indicated increases in both lean and fat tissue. This study indicates that wasting associated with cerebral palsy can be quickly corrected, so there is no reason why such patients should be exposed to the increased risks associated with wasting.