Porencephaly

Porencephaly
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Seizures, developmental delay, motor impairment, spasticity
Complications	Hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy
Onset	Congenital or acquired
Duration	Lifelong
Types	N/A
Causes	Stroke, infection, trauma, genetic disorders
Risks
Diagnosis	MRI, CT scan
Differential diagnosis	Schizencephaly, hydranencephaly, arachnoid cyst
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Anticonvulsants, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on severity
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Porencephaly is a rare neurological disorder characterized by the presence of cysts or cavities within the cerebral hemisphere. These cysts or cavities are usually the result of damage from stroke or infections that occur before birth.

Causes

The exact cause of porencephaly is unknown. However, it is believed to be associated with a variety of factors including genetic mutation, intrauterine infection, trauma, and ischemia.

Symptoms

Symptoms of porencephaly can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the cyst or cavity. Common symptoms include developmental delay, motor impairment, seizures, hydrocephalus, spasticity, and microcephaly.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of porencephaly is typically made through imaging studies such as MRI or CT scan. These tests can reveal the presence of cysts or cavities in the brain.

Treatment

There is no cure for porencephaly. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, and may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medication to control seizures.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with porencephaly varies widely. Some individuals may have normal intelligence and lifespan, while others may have severe disabilities and shortened lifespan.

See also

• Neurological disorder
• Cyst
• Cerebral hemisphere
• Stroke
• Intrauterine infection
• Trauma
• Ischemia
• Developmental delay
• Motor impairment
• Seizures
• Hydrocephalus
• Spasticity
• Microcephaly
• MRI
• CT scan
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy