Medical problems in adults with cerebral palsy: case examples.

The United Cerebral Palsy Association estimates that there are approximately one-half million adults with cerebral palsy in the United States. The number may be growing due to advances in medical care and the increased life expectancy of adults in general. Little has been published regarding their medical issues and rehabilitation needs. What little has been published has indicated almost a total neglect of specialty care and preventive medical services. Five case examples are presented to help illustrate particular medical and surgical problems not identified by either pediatric or adult healthcare providers alone. Each individual shows improvement with comprehensive team-oriented specialty care. Further study is encouraged.