Health Library

Cortical Dysplasia in Children

Types of Cortical Dysplasia

The most common type of cortical dysplasia is Focal Cortical Dysplasia (FCD). There are three types of FCD:

Type I − is hard to see on a brain scan. Often the patients do not start having seizures until they are adults. This type usually involves the temporal lobe of the brain.

Type II − is a more severe form of cortical dysplasia. It is seen more often in children. This type normally involves both the temporal and frontal lobe of the brain.

Type III − includes one of the above described dysplasias. It also involves damage to another part of the brain. This type may also be due to brain injury early in life.

What Causes Cortical Dysplasia?

Cortical dysplasia is usually due to the brain not forming right. This often happens before the child is born and is not a result of anything the mother did during pregnancy. Some other causes may be due to genetics or a brain injury.

What are the Symptoms of Cortical Dysplasia?

The most common symptom of cortical dysplasia is seizures. Some patients may also have problems learning new things.

How is Cortical Dysplasia Treated?

Treatment is focused on controlling seizures. The doctor may start your child on medicine. A special diet, called a ketogenic diet, may also be tried to help control the seizures.

Brain surgery may be another treatment if the patient still has seizures after trying different medicines. Risks for surgery are infection, seizures and decreased motor function. Risks of not doing surgery are increased seizures, loss of skills, and poor quality of life.

Another treatment option may be a Vagal Nerve Stimulator (VNS). This may be considered if brain surgery is not an option. Risks for having a VNS placed are infection and continued seizures. Risks for not having a VNS include worsening seizures and poor quality of life.

When to Call Doctor

Call your child’s doctor if:

• seizures continue or get worse
• there are any side effects to the medicine
• you have any questions or concerns