Schizencephaly is a rare congenital brain malformation that causes slits or clefts in the cerebral hemispheres, which are the right and left sides of the brain that control movement, emotions, language, thought, memory, hearing and vision. The clefts can be on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) of the brain, and they can be filled with cerebrospinal fluid and grey matter, which is a type of brain tissue that regulates movement, memory and emotions.
The exact cause of it is unknown, but it may involve genetic mutations, vascular problems, infections or exposure to certain medications or toxins during fetal development. The condition is very rare, affecting about 1.5 per 100,000 births in the US.
The symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the clefts and can include:
Schizencephaly is a rare congenital disorder where abnormal clefts or gaps form in the cerebral cortex of the brain. It can lead to various neurological and developmental issues. While schizencephaly itself primarily affects cognitive and motor functions, emotional difficulties can arise due to the associated challenges. Emotional impact may vary based on the severity of the condition and additional factors. It's important to consult with medical professionals for accurate information and guidance.