Is PVL a neurological disorder?

Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is a type of brain injury that affects premature infants. The condition involves the death of small areas of brain tissue around fluid-filled areas called ventricles. The damage creates “holes” in the brain. “Leuko” refers to the brain’s white matter.

Does PVL get worse?

PVL is not a progressive condition so its symptoms do not gradually worsen as the child gets older. The damage to the white matter occurs during brain development and does not continue to expand after birth.

Can PVL cause mental retardation?

PVL is the main cause of infant mortality; patients who survive suffer from nervous system disorders and mental retardation later in life. The pathogenesis of this condition has been linked to perinatal inflammation and/or hypoxia-ischaemia.

Is PVL serious?

PVL may lead to problems with physical or mental development. The severity of these problems varies. In these cases, the baby still needs to be checked from time to time for signs of problems. In the most severe cases, PVL can cause cerebral palsy or other serious physical and mental delays.

Can PVL resolve?

In some mild cases, the condition causes no symptoms. There is no treatment to cure PVL. 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.

What causes leukomalacia?

What Causes Periventricular Leukomalacia? PVL is usually caused by brain tissue that has been injured or has died due to a lack of blood flow. Although the exact reasons this happens are not known, it may be associated with IVH that occurs before, during, or after birth.

Can a child with CP walk?

Most (about 75\%-85\%) children with CP have spastic CP. This means that their muscles are stiff, and as a result, their movements can be awkward. Over half (about 50\%-60\%) of children with CP can walk independently. About 1 in 10 children identified with CP walk using a hand-held mobility device.

What is white matter in the brain?

White matter is found in the deeper tissues of the brain (subcortical). It contains nerve fibers (axons), which are extensions of nerve cells (neurons). Many of these nerve fibers are surrounded by a type of sheath or covering called myelin. Myelin gives the white matter its color.

How long does PVL take to develop?

PVL is often silent, which means there are no signs, symptoms or encephalopathy. In some cases, PVL will not fully manifest until about 8 weeks after birth. Outward signs and symptoms are often not noticeable until much later, though, when the child starts to have more motor function and performs specific tasks.

Is PVL a cyst?

Periventricular leucomalacia (PVL) is a condition in which decreased blood flow to brain tissue causes it to soften up and eventually die, leaving behind cysts, or holes, filled with fluid. Over time, these cysts may fuse together and enlarge or collapse.

What does PVL stand for?

PVL