Up to one-third of cerebral palsy cases have a genetic cause¹⁻³
Every year, 10,000 children are diagnosed with cerebral palsy,4,5 yet for most, the cause remains unknown6. Historically, birth-related issues, such as asphyxia and trauma, were thought to be the primary cause of cerebral palsy.
More recent research shows that genetics plays a meaningful role in many cases, while birth asphyxia accounts for less than 10% of cases3. Identifying the underlying genetic cause can provide clarity and guide more informed care decisions.
Many patients with cerebral palsy have additional genetic conditions7,8
Cerebral palsy often appears alongside other neurodevelopmental and medical features. In fact8:
of patients with cerebral palsy also have intellectual disability.
of patients with cerebral palsy also have epilepsy.
of patients with cerebral palsy also have autism spectrum disorder.
A genetic diagnosis supports more personalized care
Understanding the genetic cause of cerebral palsy can clarify prognosis and help clinicians tailor care to the patient’s needs.
A diagnosis can inform12:
- Medical management
- Surveillance
- Reproductive counseling
- Family testing
- Cost-efficient care planning
- Access to advocacy resources
- Access to therapies and services
- Access to clinical trials
Take action to find the cause
Exome and genome sequencing can uncover the root cause of a patient’s cerebral palsy and may also reveal a co-occurring condition1. If you don’t test, you just don’t know.
Find answers with GeneDx
We can help you take a guideline-driven approach.
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