Polymicrogyria
Polymicrogyria (pronounced: poh-lee-my-kroh-jy-ree-uh) is a condition characterized by abnormal development of the brain before birth. The surface of the brain normally has many ridges or folds, called gyri. In people with polymicrogyria, the brain develops too many folds, and they are unusually small. The name of this condition literally means "many small folds" (poly- "many", micro- "small", gyria "folds").
Etymology
The term "Polymicrogyria" is derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning many, "micro" meaning small, and "gyria" meaning folds.
Symptoms
The symptoms of polymicrogyria depend on which areas of the brain are affected and how severe the disorder is. They can include developmental delay, intellectual disability, problems with movement, and seizures.
Causes
Polymicrogyria is thought to result from abnormal development of the neural tube (the structure in the developing embryo that becomes the brain and spinal cord) during early pregnancy. However, the exact cause is often unknown. Some cases have been linked to genetic mutations, infections during pregnancy, or lack of oxygen during development.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of polymicrogyria is usually made through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, which can show the characteristic abnormalities of the brain's surface.
Treatment
There is no cure for polymicrogyria. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, and may include medications to control seizures, physical therapy to help with movement problems, and special education services for developmental delays and intellectual disability.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Polymicrogyria
- Wikipedia's article - Polymicrogyria
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