What is the most significant risk factor for cerebral palsy in a 10-month-old born at 31 weeks gestation?

Prematurity is indeed the most significant risk factor for cerebral palsy, particularly in infants born in the early weeks of gestation. In the case of a 10-month-old who was born at just 31 weeks gestation, this infant would have undergone considerable physiological challenges during early development. The brain of a premature infant is still developing and is particularly vulnerable to injury, which can lead to conditions like cerebral palsy.

Cerebral palsy arises from various factors, with prematurity being a critical component, especially for infants born before 32 weeks. These babies are at an elevated risk for brain damage due to a variety of reasons, including intraventricular hemorrhage, which is more prevalent in preterm infants and can adversely affect brain development.

While low birth weight and multiple gestation are also risk factors for cerebral palsy, they are often associated with prematurity. Therefore, while low birth weight is relevant, it is often a consequence of being born prematurely. Non-violent delivery is not considered a significant risk factor for cerebral palsy compared to the impact of prematurity on neurological development. Thus, identifying prematurity as the most significant risk factor fully aligns with the known pathophysiology of cerebral palsy in preterm infants.