When can you detect cerebral palsy?

As a medical professional with expertise in pediatric neurology, I can provide you with information on the detection of cerebral palsy (CP). Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, which can occur before, during, or shortly after birth. The timing of when CP can be detected varies depending on the severity of the condition and the specific symptoms presented by the child. In severe cases, the signs of CP may be evident shortly after birth, as the child may exhibit significant motor difficulties that are hard to miss. However, for most children, the diagnosis of CP is typically made during the first two years of life. This is because, during this period, a child's motor skills are developing rapidly, and any delays or abnormalities in development can become more apparent. For children with milder symptoms, the diagnosis might be delayed until the child's brain is more fully developed. This can occur around the age of three to five years. By this age, a child's motor development is more established, and it becomes easier to identify any persistent developmental issues that may indicate CP. It's important to note that there is no single test that can confirm or rule out CP. The diagnosis is made based on a combination of medical history, a physical examination, and the observation of the child's developmental progress over time.

There is no test that confirms or rules out Cerebral Palsy. In severe cases, the child may be diagnosed soon after birth, but for the majority, diagnosis can be made in the first two years. For those with milder symptoms, a diagnosis may not be rendered until the brain is fully developed at three to five years of age.