This systematic review and meta-analysis, published in JAMA Pediatrics, examined whether genetic findings in people with cerebral palsy could lead to changes in clinical care. The study found that pathogenic or likely pathogenic genetic variants were identified in more than one-quarter of individuals in the included cohorts, and a smaller proportion had findings considered clinically actionable.

The findings suggest that genetic testing may help identify specific causes of cerebral palsy and, in some cases, guide treatment, prevention strategies, symptom management, family planning and access to more tailored support. Genetic testing is increasingly being explored as part of understanding the underlying causes of cerebral palsy.