[Neuropsychology of cerebral palsy]

Cognitive performance in cerebral palsy (CP) varies between being completely normal and severe mental retardation. This heterogeneity depends on several factors, including the type of paralysis and associated cerebral lesions.

We review neuropsychological studies with reference to general cognitive performance and specific performance (language, memory, attention and visuospatial functions). We also consider studies relating neuroimaging and neuropsychology in the different types of CP.

Language is one of the best preserved functions studied in CP, apart from effects due to the lesion itself. Defects of articulation may affect understanding but not to any great extent. Immediate memory also seems to be relatively well preserved. In general no effects of lateralization are seen with regard to language or memory, although this may be seen when carrying out complex tasks or when involving attention and visuoconstructive tasks. The relatively few studies relating neuroimaging and neuropsychology are inconclusive regarding specific abilities.