QuestionOn my last ultrasound they found said that my babys cerebellum or vermis was a little smaller than usual. On my ultrasound report it says that they found a small inferior vermian defect (which I dont know what that means) and a posterior fossa cyst. Now this looks like dandy walker syndrome and I am so scared because I dont know what effects my baby will have weather its going to be mild or severe I pray that its really mild! I was curious if you know the effects of dandy walker syndrome and do these types of cyst go away?
AnswerDear Nindy,
Dandy-Walker Syndrome is a congenital brain malformation involving the cerebellum (an area at the back of the brain that controls movement) and the fluid filled spaces around it. The key features of this syndrome are an enlargement of the fourth ventricle (a small channel that allows fluid to flow freely between the upper and lower areas of the brain and spinal cord), a partial or complete absence of the cerebellar vermis (the area between the two cerebellar hemispheres), and cyst formation near the internal base of the skull.
The syndrome can appear dramatically or develop unnoticed. Symptoms, which often occur in early infancy, include slow motor development and progressive enlargement of the skull. In older children, symptoms of increased intracranial pressure such as irritability, vomiting, and convulsions, and signs of cerebellar dysfunction such as unsteadiness, lack of muscle coordination, or jerky movements of the eyes may occur. Other symptoms include increased head circumference, bulging at the back of the skull, problems with the nerves that control the eyes, face and neck, and abnormal breathing patterns. Dandy-Walker Syndrome is frequently associated with disorders of other areas of the central nervous system including absence of the corpus callosum (the connecting area between the two cerebral hemispheres), and malformations of the heart, face, limbs, fingers and toes.
The effect of Dandy-Walker Syndrome on intellectual development is variable, with some children having normal cognition and others never achieving normal intellectual development even when the hydrocephalus is treated early and correctly. Longevity depends on the severity of the syndrome and associated malformations. The presence of multiple congenital defects may shorten life span.
Treatment for individuals with Dandy-Walker Syndrome generally consists of treating the associated problems, if needed. A special tube to drain off excess fluid may be placed inside the skull. This will reduce intracranial pressure and help control swelling. Parents of children with Dandy-Walker Syndrome may benefit from genetic counseling for this child and especially if they intend to have more children. This is likely something that your doctor will suggest and is usually a valuable tool for gathering and filtering out a lot of information in the easiest possible manner.
If absolutely diagnosed, this syndrome does not "go away". Again, the actual effects will depend upon the severity of the syndrome in each particular case - whether mild or severe.
I do apologize for the delay in answering your question. Although we are encouraged to answer within 3-5 days, I usually like to answer my questions within 48 hours. Unfortunately, I am having issues with migraines again and will likely need to take a short LOA from this while I get some medication adjusted. I do hate to make people wait when I know you are anxious for answers, so taking a short leave seems more reasonable. Again, I am sorry for the delay.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
