Safety and Efficacy of Multiple EPO Injections in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Safety and Efficacy of Repetitive Erythropoietin Treatment for Cerebral Palsy

This study is a retrospective review on the safety and efficacy of repetitive erythropoietin injection in children with cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is mostly caused by hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy from preterm birth, involving inflammatory and apoptotic cellular response. Erythropoietin (EPO) has shown neuroprotective effects via activation of anti-inflammatory, angiogenic, and anti-apoptotic pathways. The safety and feasibility of EPO in children were proven in previous clinical trials. In addition, the efficacy of EPO is actively being investigated and some reports have shown potential benefits in cerebral palsy. To confirm the safety and efficacy of multiple injections with expected effect, retrospective review on medical records was performed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• confirmed clinical diagnosis of cerebral palsy based on neuromotor findings,
• less than 18 years of age,
• received recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) more than once.

Exclusion Criteria:

• not responding to phone interview or
• no functional assessments available.