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Encephaloceles Reviewed 12-14-2001 Get Web page suited for printing Email this to a friend or colleague Studies with patients Table of Contents (click to jump to sections) What are Encephaloceles?Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Organizations What are Encephaloceles? Encephaloceles are rare neural tube defects characterized by sac-like protrusions of the meninges (the membranes that cover the brain) and brain tissue through abnormal openings in the skull. The defects are caused by failure of the neural tube to close during the development of the fetus. Symptoms may include hydrocephalus, spastic quadriplegia (paralysis of all 4 limbs), developmental delay, microcephaly, vision problems, mental and growth retardation, ataxia, and seizures. Some affected children may have normal intelligence. Encephaloceles are often accompanied by craniofacial abnormalities or other brain malformations. Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Birth Defect Research for Children
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
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