Development of equations and software for estimating weight in children with cerebral palsy

RUIZ BRUNNER, MARIA M.; CIERI, MARIA E.; BUTLER, CHARLENE; CUESTAS E

DEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE AND CHILD NEUROLOGY

WILEY-BLACKWELL PUBLISHING, INC

Lugar: Londres; Año: 2021

0012-1622

Aim: To develop equations and software to estimate weight using segmental measures for children with cerebral palsy (CP).Method: This was a cross-sectional study. Children and adolescents with CP of both sexes from 2 to 19 years old from five cities in Argentina were included. Weight, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), and clinical covariables were collected. Linear regression models with weight as the dependent variable and body segment lengths as predictors were developed and compared for R2 , adjusted R2 , and the root mean square of the error.Results: In total, 381 children and adolescents (mean age 10y 5mo [SD 4y 9mo], range 2-19y; 231 males, 150 females) with a confirmed diagnosis of CP were included. Gross motor function based on the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) was as follows: level I, 59; II, 55; III, 59; IV, 69; V, 139. The interaction between weight and other variables such as MUAC, sex, GMFCS, and age was analysed. The concordance correlation coefficient between estimated and observed weight was 0.94 (95% CI 0.93-0.95). From the results of the equations, a free software tool, named Weight Calculator CP, was developed.Interpretation: Weight in children with CP can be predicted using MUAC, GMFCS, and age. Weight Calculator CP can be used in clinical practice when direct weight cannot be obtained.