One of the most devastating types of injuries that could impact Washington residents is cortical dysplasia. Children are particularly vulnerable to this condition while they are still in the womb. This is what cortical dysplasia is, its causes, symptoms and treatment options.
Understanding cortical dysplasia
Cortical dysplasia is one of the types of brain injuries that commonly causes problems like epilepsy and developmental disabilities. It occurs when the topmost layer of a baby’s brain, the cerebral cortex, fails to properly develop. There are three types of cortical dysplasia: type I, which affects the temporal lobe and causes seizures once the person has reached adulthood, type II, which is more severe and affects the frontal and temporal lobes and is common in children, and type III, which affects other parts of the brain and sometimes involves tumors.
Causes, symptoms and treatment
Genetics or a brain injury can cause cortical dysplasia. However, the condition is not caused by anything the mother does or takes during her pregnancy. Seizures usually caused by epilepsy are the most common symptom of cortical dysplasia. Some individuals may have trouble learning and experience developmental delays early in life.
Cortical dysplasia can be diagnosed using certain tests so that the doctor can rule out other causes of seizures. This might include magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalogram, positron emission tomography or another type of scan to examine the brain to check electrical activity or locations where seizures start.
Treatment options may include a special ketogenic diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates, anti-epilepsy medication or even surgery on the affected areas. If surgery is necessary, the neurosurgeon will remove areas presenting lesions and have them evaluated in a lab. Often, this treatment helps curb seizures and provides relief.
Seizures associated with cortical dysplasia can impact your child’s daily life. Seeking medical treatment might make a positive difference in their future.