Comparison of micronutrient levels in children with cerebral palsy and neurologically normal controls.

Objective: To measure levels of micronutrients in children with cerebral palsy and compare them with neurologically normal children of similar nutritional status.

Methods: Fifty children with cerebral palsy (2-12 y) and 50 age and sex matched controls of similar nutritional status were enrolled. Detailed dietary history was recorded and nutritional status assessed. Venous blood (3 ml) was drawn for analysis. Micronutrient levels were measured as per standard technique.

Results: Serum iron was 12.6 ± 5.9 and 20.9 ± 3.3 μmol/L in CP and controls respectively (P < 0.001). Mean copper levels were 106.2 ± 38.3 μg/dl in CP and 128.8 ± 20.2 μg/dl in controls (P < 0.001); magnesium levels were 1.97 ± 0.4 and 2.2 ± 0.3 mg/dl (P = 0.003). Zinc levels were similar in CP and controls (P = 0.979). The mean energy intake was significantly less in CP (P = 0.016). Mean protein intake did not vary significantly (P = 0.847). No correlation was found between energy intake and serum levels of micronutrients (P > 0.05). There was no difference in micronutrient levels with respect to gross motor functional classification system (GMFCS) grades and limb involvement (P > 0.05).

Conclusions: The serum levels of iron, copper and magnesium are significantly less in children with cerebral palsy, hence the need for supplementation.