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Periventricular Leukomalacia - Oren Zarif - Periventricular Leukomalacia


Among the causes of brain damage in premature infants are hydrocephalus, periventricular leukomalacia, and cerebellar disease. It is estimated that up to 60,000 infants in the United States are born with birth weights below 1500 grams each year. Of these, at least 50% have some type of cerebral white matter injury. To understand the causes and symptoms of periventricular leukomalacia, let's look at the development of the condition.

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The first step in diagnosing periventricular leukomalacia is a physical exam and review of the child's medical history. This physical exam may indicate that periventricular leukomalacia is the cause. A diagnostic procedure may be necessary to collect images of the brain and spinal cord tissue. Several types of diagnostic tests can be used to diagnose periventricular leukomalacia, including magnetic resonance imaging, cranial ultrasound, and MRI.

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Cystic periventricular leukomalacia is rare and affects 3% to 4% of preterm infants. About 60% of these children will develop cerebral palsy. On a standard T1 or T2-weighted MRI, cystic lesions are easily identifiable. The cysts usually appear in the centrum semiovale of the periventricular white matter. A dMRI examination may show diffusion restrictions prior to the formation of the cyst. Cysts have different evolutionary patterns and may be adjacent to areas of white matter that were less recently affected by periventricular leukomalacia.

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Depending on the severity of the condition, periventricular leukomalacia may cause intellectual impairment, which may range from mild to severe. The death of white matter cells in the brain can interfere with hearing and detecting vibrations. Patients may also suffer from cross-eyes and nystagmus, which is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements. If these symptoms are present, you may need to see a doctor or neurosurgeon for further evaluation.

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The main causes of periventricular leukomalacia are not fully understood. While it is possible to reverse the effects of PVL, there is no cure for the condition. However, there are a number of ways in which the disease can be prevented and treated. One way is to avoid exposing premature infants to unnecessary risk factors. In this way, we can prevent this devastating brain injury. Just make sure to follow the correct guidelines.

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PVL is a condition in which white matter in the brain dies and the brain tissue softens. Premature babies are at greater risk for developing the condition than healthy infants. The lack of oxygen and blood flow in the periventricular region of the brain leads to a loss of brain tissue. Symptoms of PVL include delayed mental development, vision impairment, motor disorders, and coordination problems.

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The role of endotoxin in the development of PVL is unknown, but several studies suggest that endotoxin causes cytokine production and OL death in infants. Studies have also shown that maternal/fetal infection and inflammation are important factors in the development of PVL. If these factors are linked, then there may be a role for endotoxin in PVWM injury.

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The lesion in the periventricular white matter contains cells responsible for a range of activities. These cells have fibers that connect the brain and spinal cord and help the body move fluidly. Fibers are vital to the functioning of the brain and keep the mind sharp. A white space contains protective materials. However, gray matter is similar to white matter in appearance. The latter is gray, but it is more widespread than white matter.

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Preterm infants are at higher risk for developing PVL. The healthcare team delivering the baby should follow up on the baby's heart rate and monitor it closely. If it changes, the doctor may perform an emergency c-section. The resulting brain damage could cause the infant to develop cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and learning difficulties. In some cases, PVL is associated with an intraventricular hemorrhage.

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While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to occur when brain tissue does not receive enough blood during the birth process. Moreover, babies with PVL are usually preterm, and early rupture of the membranes may lead to the condition. Infection in the uterus has been associated with PVL, and smaller, younger infants are more susceptible. PVL is an often fatal condition and the risk increases with the onset of cerebral palsy.

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