# Respiratory Microbiota and Health Risks in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Narrative Review

## TL;DR

This review explores how the respiratory microbiota in children with cerebral palsy differs from typical patterns, potentially increasing their risk of infections and health complications.

## Contribution

The paper systematically reviews recent findings on microbial changes in the respiratory systems of children with cerebral palsy and identifies factors influencing these changes.

## Key findings

- Children with CP show reduced beneficial bacteria like Corynebacterium spp. and Dolosigranulum spp. in their respiratory microbiota.
- Opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are more prevalent in CP children.
- Factors like urban living, diet, and vaccination status influence the composition of respiratory microbiota in CP children.

## Abstract

Children diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) frequently face a range of intricate health challenges that go beyond their main condition. Respiratory problems represent one of the most crucial factors contributing to morbidity and mortality. This review employed a systematic approach to identify and collate recent findings on the respiratory microbiota in children with CP. The review emphasizes notable microbial alterations in the respiratory systems of children with CP, marked by a decrease in beneficial bacteria (such as Corynebacterium spp. and Dolosigranulum spp.) and an increase in opportunistic pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumonia. These changes probably increase the vulnerability of children with CP to frequent respiratory infections, ongoing inflammation, and infections that are resistant to antibiotics. Key factors influencing the composition of microbiota include living in urban areas, socioeconomic factors, seasonal variations, vaccination status, dietary habits, breastfeeding, etc. Although new research has shed significant light on this topic, there are still considerable gaps in our understanding of how these microbial communities develop and interact with the immune responses of the host. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to track microbiota changes over time and identify interventions that optimize respiratory health in CP.