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periventricular
leukomalacia
Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is
characterized by the death of the white matter of the brain due to
softening of the brain tissue. It can affect fetuses or newborns;
premature babies are at the greatest risk of the disorder. PVL is caused
by a lack of oxygen or blood flow to the periventricular area of the
brain, which results in the death or loss of brain tissue. The
periventricular area-the area around the spaces in the brain called
ventricles-contains nerve fibers that carry messages from the brain to the
body's muscles. Although babies with PVL generally have no outward
signs or symptoms of the disorder, they are at risk for motor disorders,
delayed mental development, coordination problems, and vision and hearing
impairments. PVL may be accompanied by a hemorrhage or bleeding in
the periventricular- intraventricular area (the area around and inside the
ventricles), and can lead to cerebral palsy. The disorder is diagnosed by
ultrasound of the head.
There is no specific treatment for PVL. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Children with PVL should receive regular medical screenings to determine appropriate interventions.
The prognosis for individuals with PVL depends upon the severity of the brain damage. Some children exhibit fairly mild symptoms, while others have significant deficits and disabilities.
The NINDS supports and conducts research on brain injuries such as PVL. Much of this research is aimed at finding ways to prevent and treat these disorders.
Information provided by NINDS.
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The information contained in this Children's Hemiplegia and Stroke Association (CHASA) Web site is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment, and CHASA recommends consultation with your doctor or health care professional.