Adults with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy: a mapping review of long-term outcomes

Aim Cerebral palsy (CP) is recognized as a lifespan condition. This mapping review identifies outcomes that have been measured in adults with CP between 1970 and 2010 to determine if either the outcomes evaluated or the research methodologies have changed substantially. Method We performed a literature review. For studies to be included, participants had to be 16 years or older and 80% of the sample had to have a diagnosis of CP. Articles were grouped by decade, and outcomes were categorized using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework and terminology. Results Fifty-eight articles were included in the mapping review. Both the number of studies and the types of outcomes investigated increased from 1970 to 2010. Outcomes representing the ICF component of Body Function and Structure were present across the period reviewed, whereas interest in contextual (personal or environmental) factors has primarily emerged since 2000. Interpretation Gaps were identified by the mapping review. Large age ranges and heterogeneity of sample populations made it difficult to determine if the outcomes reported were due to ageing or the long-term consequences of CP. In addition, most reviewed articles described outcomes categorically, with few papers providing explanations or solutions to reported outcomes.