Intrathecal baclofen for management of spasticity in hereditary spastic paraparesis

Pointon R, Whelan H, Raza R, Peacock S, Wilsmore C, Mulkeen A, Goodden J, Lodh R. The use of intrathecal baclofen for management of spasticity in hereditary spastic paraparesis: A case series. Eur J Paediatr Neurol. 2022 Jan;36:14-18. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2021.11.003. Epub 2021 Nov 11. PMID: 34794088.

Abstract

Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis (HSP) causes lower limb spasticity, pain and limits ambulation resulting in a negative impact on an individual's quality of life. This case series evaluates the use of Intra-thecal Baclofen (ITB) on 5 ambulant children with HSP. Our results suggest ITB is associated with a reduction in spasticity and a trend towards improvement in patient-reported quality of life and achievement of personalised goals. This was evidenced with lower Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) scores and increasing values using the Cerebral Palsy Quality of Life (CPQoL) tool and Goal Attainment Scale (GAS). ITB was not associated with any major immediate or longer-term adverse effects. Overall, our study supports the role of ITB, used in a goal-directed manner, in the management of children and young people with HSP where other standard treatment options have been unsuccessful.