Why is spastic cerebral palsy caused by lesion in pyramidal tract?

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SUMMARY

Spastic cerebral palsy is primarily caused by lesions in the pyramidal tract, which affects upper motor neurons and results in spasticity. Contrary to earlier beliefs, spasticity can arise from pyramidal lesions, while non-spastic forms of cerebral palsy are attributed to extrapyramidal lesions. Key terms clarified include plegia (complete paralysis), diplegia (lower limbs more affected than upper limbs), and quadriplegia (all four limbs affected). Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of upper motor neuron lesions
  • Familiarity with pyramidal and extrapyramidal tracts
  • Knowledge of neurological terminology related to paralysis
  • Basic concepts of cerebral palsy classifications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of spasticity in upper motor neuron lesions
  • Study the differences between pyramidal and extrapyramidal motor pathways
  • Explore diagnostic criteria for various types of cerebral palsy
  • Learn about treatment options for spastic cerebral palsy
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Medical students, neurologists, physical therapists, and anyone involved in the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral palsy.

sameeralord
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Hello everyone,

The way I remember upper motor neuron lesions. I always thought a singular lesion in pyramidal tract would only cause Babiniski sign and loss of superficial reflexes. For a UMN to cause spasticty it must affect extra pyramidal motor tracts such as reticulospinal tract.

But I just read in this website spastic cerbral palsy is pyramidal and non spastic is extrapyramidal. How can that be?

Also did I understand these terms right

Plegia : Complete paralysis.
Diplegia: Lower Limbs affected more than Upper Limb . Isn't this same as paraplegia?
Quadriplgia: All 4 limbs affected. Are UL more affected than LL.Thank you :smile:
 
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