Skip navigation
MedlinePlus Trusted Health Information for You U.S. National Library of MedicineNational Institutes of Health
Contact Us FAQs Site Map About MedlinePlus
español Home Health Topics Drugs & Supplements Medical Encyclopedia Dictionary News Directories Other Resources

 

Medical Encyclopedia

Other encyclopedia topics:  A-Ag  Ah-Ap  Aq-Az  B-Bk  Bl-Bz  C-Cg  Ch-Co  Cp-Cz  D-Di  Dj-Dz  E-Ep  Eq-Ez  F  G  H-Hf  Hg-Hz  I-In  Io-Iz  J  K  L-Ln  Lo-Lz  M-Mf  Mg-Mz  N  O  P-Pl  Pm-Pz  Q  R  S-Sh  Si-Sp  Sq-Sz  T-Tn  To-Tz  U  V  W  X  Y  Z  0-9 

Sturge-Weber syndrome

Printer-friendly versionEmail this page to a friend
Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Sturge-Weber syndrome - legs
Sturge-Weber syndrome - legs
Sturge-Weber syndrome - soles of feet
Sturge-Weber syndrome - soles of feet
Circulatory system
Circulatory system

Alternative Names    Return to top

Encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis

Definition    Return to top

Sturge-Weber syndrome is a rare disorder present at birth in which the child has a port-wine stain birthmark (usually on the face) and neurologic problems.

Causes    Return to top

The cause of Sturge-Weber is unknown. There is no known hereditary component.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

X-rays, MRI, or CT scans are useful to look for associated problems.

Treatment    Return to top

Treatment is based on the patient's signs and symptoms, and may include:

Support Groups    Return to top

For information and support, see www.sturge-weber.com.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Most cases of Sturge-Weber are not life threatening. The quality of life depends on how well the symptoms, such as seizures, can be prevented or treated.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

All birthmarks, including a port-wine stain, should be evaluated by the health care provider. Seizures, visual problems, paralysis, and change in alertness or mental state may mean the coverings of the brain are involved. These symptoms should be evaluated promptly.

Prevention    Return to top

There is no known prevention.

Update Date: 10/23/2007

Updated by: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Logo

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.