Colpocephaly
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What is Colpocephaly?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?
Organizations
What is Colpocephaly?
Colpocephaly is a congenital brain abnormality in which the occipital horns - the posterior or rear portion of the lateral
ventricles (cavities) of the brain -- are larger than normal because white matter in the posterior cerebrum has failed to
develop or thicken. Colpocephaly, one of a group of structural brain disorders known as cephalic disorders, is characterized by microcephaly (an abnormally small head) and mental retardation. Other features may include movement
abnormalities, muscle spasms, and seizures. Although the cause of colpocephaly is unknown, researchers believe that the disorder
results from some kind of disturbance in the fetal environment that occurs between the second and sixth months of pregnancy.
Colpocephaly may be diagnosed late in pregnancy, although it is often misdiagnosed as hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation
of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain). It may be more accurately diagnosed after birth when signs of mental retardation, microcephaly,
and seizures are present.
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?
Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
March of Dimes Foundation 1275 Mamaroneck Avenue White Plains, NY 10605 askus@marchofdimes.com http://www.marchofdimes.com Tel: 914-428-7100 888-MODIMES (663-4637) Fax: 914-428-8203 |
Birth Defect Research for Children, Inc. 800 Celebration Avenue Suite 225 Celebration, FL 34747 betty@birthdefects.org http://www.birthdefects.org Tel: 407-566-8304 Fax: 407-566-8341 |
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Last updated February 12, 2007