Periventricular Leukomalacia
(PVL)What is periventricular leukomalacia
(PVL)?
Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is damage and softening of the white
matter, the inner part of the brain that transmits information between the
nerve cells and the spinal cord as well as from one part of the brain to
another.
- "periventricular" means around or near the ventricles, the spaces in
the brain containing the cerebrospinal fluid
- "leuko" means white
- "malacia" means softening
Why is periventricular leukomalacia a concern?With PVL, the area of damaged brain tissue can affect the nerve
cells that control motor movements. As the baby grows, the damaged nerve
cells cause the muscles to become spastic, or tight, and resistant to
movement. Babies with PVL have a higher risk of developing cerebral palsy
(a group of disorders that prevent the child from controlling their
muscles normally), and may have intellectual or learning difficulties.
PVL may occur alone or in addition to intraventricular hemorrhage
(bleeding inside the brain).
What causes periventricular leukomalacia?It is not clear why PVL occurs. This area of the brain is very
susceptible to injury, especially in premature babies, whose brain tissues
are fragile. PVL may happen when the brain receives too little oxygen.
However, it is not clear when the trigger for PVL occurs - before, during,
or after birth. Most babies who develop PVL are premature, especially
those born before 30 weeks gestation. Other factors that may be associated
with PVL include early rupture of membranes (amniotic sac) and infection
inside the uterus.
What are the symptoms of periventricular
leukomalacia?
PVL may not be apparent until later months. Each baby may experience
symptoms differently. The most common symptom of PVL is spastic diplegia,
tight, contracted muscles, especially in the legs. Symptoms of PVL may
resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your baby's
physician for a diagnosis.
How is periventricular leukomalacia diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination,
diagnostic procedures for PVL may include:
- cranial ultrasound, a painless test that uses sound waves to view
the baby's brain through the fontanelles, the soft openings between the
skull bones. With PVL, the ultrasound shows cysts or hollow places in
the brain tissue.
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This test uses a combination of a
large magnet, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed
images of internal structures. MRI may show some of the early changes in
the brain tissue that occur with PVL.
Treatment for periventricular leukomalacia:There are no treatments for PVL. Management of the problems
that can result from PVL will be determined by your baby's physician based
on:
- your baby's gestational age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the condition
- your baby's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or
therapies
- expectations for the course of the condition
- your opinion or preference
Babies at risk for PVL may need special care after discharge from the
hospital. Follow-up may include physical therapy, occupational therapy,
and speech therapy.
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