The differential diagnosis of spastic diplegia

Abstract

Spastic diplegia is the most common form of cerebral palsy worldwide. Many disorders mimic spastic diplegia, which can result in misdiagnosis for the child with resultant negative treatment and family counselling implications. In this paper, the authors provide a brief review of spastic diplegia and the various disorders in the differential diagnosis. We also provide a diagnostic algorithm to assist physicians in making the correct diagnosis.