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Periventricular Leukomalacia


About this topic


Periventricular leukomalacia is also known as PVL. It is a brain injury that happens most often in babies who are born early. With PVL, some parts of the white matter in the brain die. Sometimes, cysts are formed in the part of the brain that has died. The white matter of the brain is where the nervous system sends information from the nerves and spinal cord to other parts of the brain. If this part of the brain is damaged, you may have problems with movement or thinking. ‚  

What are the causes?


PVL happens with oxygen to parts of the brain. This may be due to low blood flow or because of bleeding in a certain part of the brain. Doctors also believe that PVL can be caused by infection or problems with the blood vessels. ‚  

What can make this more likely to happen?


PVL is most common in babies who are born 8 or more weeks before their due date. Babies who are very sick or are very small have a higher risk for PVL. So do babies who have bleeding in the ventricles of the brain. ‚  

What are the main signs?


Babies with PVL often do not have any signs at first. It may take a month or more for this health issue to be seen on an ultrasound. Each childs signs may be different. As your baby starts to grow and develop, you may notice signs such as: ‚  
  • Problems with motor skills or coordination like trouble sitting, crawling, or walking
  • Problems with mental development, seeing, and hearing. You may notice your baby does not make sounds or seem to listen to your voice.
  • Tight muscles that are hard to move. You may notice your baby arches their back or holds their legs straight and crossed most of the time.

Many children with PVL will also grow up to have cerebral palsy. ‚  

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


The doctor will ask about your babys history and do an exam. The doctor may order tests like: ‚  
  • Head ultrasound
  • MRI or CT scan

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


There is not one specific treatment for PVL. The doctor will treat your babys signs and problems that happen because of the PVL. ‚  

Are there other health problems to treat?


Your baby may need physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help with development. Your baby may also need things like glasses, hearing aids, or care for tight muscles. ‚  

Where can I learn more?


National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke ‚  
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/periventricular_leukomalacia/periventricular_leukomalacia.htm ‚  

Last Reviewed Date


2015-12-14 ‚  

List_set bdysylist


  • Central Nervous System
  • Neonatal
  • Pediatric

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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