Periventricular leukomalacia
Disease Information
Overview
Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is characterized by the death or damage and softening of the white matter—the inner part of the brain that transmits information between the nerve cells and the spinal cord, as well as from one part of the brain to another.
- Most babies who develop PVL are premature.
- PVL may occur alone or in addition to intraventricular hemorrhage (bleeding inside the brain).
- Babies with PVL have a higher risk of developing cerebral palsy and may have intellectual or learning difficulties.
- It's not clear why PVL occurs.
- PVL can cause damage to the nerve cells that control motor movements, resulting in muscles that are tight, spastic or resistant to movement.
Children's ranks high
Related conditions and treatments:
Clinical Services
