Bone mineral density and insulin-like growth factor-1 in children with spastic cerebral palsy

H Nazif1, R Shatla2, R Elsayed3

  • 1Department of Childhood Medical Studies, Institute of Postgraduate Childhood Studies, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.

Insights

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) experience reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels, which worsen with CP severity. Low BMD and IGF-1 are linked to GMFCS level and anticonvulsant use.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Orthopedics
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Children with cerebral palsy (CP) often exhibit impaired linear growth and reduced bone mineral density (BMD).
  • Understanding factors affecting BMD in CP is crucial for managing skeletal health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP).
  • To assess the relationship between BMD and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels in these children.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 58 children with spastic CP (ages 4-12) and 19 controls.
  • Bone mineral density (BMD) measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
  • Serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and vitamin D assessed; patients classified by Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).

Main Results:

  • Seven children (12.1%) reported fractures.
  • IGF-1 levels and BMD were found to decrease with increasing CP severity.
  • IGF-1 positively correlated with serum vitamin D, BMI, and BMD.
  • Severe GMFCS levels or anticonvulsant use were associated with higher risk of low BMD and IGF-1.

Conclusions:

  • Children with spastic CP show significantly lower BMD and IGF-1 levels.
  • IGF-1 negatively correlates with osteopenia severity in spastic CP.
  • Children with CP who are not independently ambulant, have severe GMFCS, or use anticonvulsants are at high risk for low BMD.
Abstract