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Minerva Ginecologica 2007 April;59(2):151-7

Copyright © 2007 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Perinatal infections and cerebral palsy

Ribiani E., Rosati A., Romanelli M., Cruciani L., Incalza F., Di Renzo G. C.

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Perinatal Medicine and Human Reproduction, Policlinico Monteluce University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex disease characterized by the aberrant control of movement or posture that appears in early life and affect about 2 per 1 000 live-born children. CP represents the most common physical disability in childhood. An association between clinical chorioamnionitis and cerebral palsy has been recognised. Very low-birthweight infants constitute more than 1/4 of all new cases of cerebral palsy. The use of antimicrobial treatment of pregnant women with bacterial vaginosis, a complete course of antenatal steroids and magnesium sulphate are the most important strategies to prevent cerebral palsy.