Lissencephaly is a rare, gene linked malformation of the brain in which the normal convolutions in the cerebral cortex are missing and is characterised by an abnormally small head. Children with usual condition of lissencephaly have normal sized head at birth while the reduced size of head occurs in micorlissencephaly.
Causes
It occurs due to the migration of defective neuronal during embryonic development. It involves transportation of nerve cells to their permanent position from their place of origin.
Symptoms of the Lissencephaly
Some common symptoms of this condition include:
- Unusual facial appearance
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Failure to thrive
- Muscle Spasms
- Seizures
- Psychomotor retardation
- deformed hands, finger or toes
![Treatment for Lissencephaly]( "Treatment for Lissencephaly")
Treatment
Although there is no cure for lissencephaly, but the children may show progress in development over time. Supportive care should be given to provide comfort and help in feeding and other needs. Seizure may cause problems but anticonvulsant medications may provide relief.
Research
Recent researches on lissencephaly have identified the genes which are responsible for this condition. These researches have laid the foundation for developing effective treatment and measures for neuronal migration disorder.
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