Encephalocele
Encephalocele (en-sef-a-lo-seal) is a congenital neural tube defect condition characterized by a large sac of tissue and fluid bulging out of a baby’s head. When the spinal cord doesn’t properly close during formation, brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid can herniate through the opening, forming a sac outside the head and exposing crucial parts of the central nervous system. On rare occasions, non-congenital encephalocele may result from trauma, tumors, or injuries sustained during previous surgeries or treatments.
While the exact cause of encephalocele is unknown, researchers have determined it is most likely a combination of genetics and environmental exposures before or during pregnancy.
If Not Treated
If Not Treated
Symptoms of encephalocele are hydrocephalus, loss of motor function, an unusually small head, lack of coordination, developmental delays, mental disabilities, vision problems, delayed growth, and seizures.
Children with disabilities often experience stigma and discrimination, leading to poor self-confidence and isolation.
Treatment
Treatment
Surgical intervention is necessary to put the protruding and exposed tissue back into the skull. Depending on the severity of the condition, multiple surgeries could be needed. However, surgery cannot fix neurologic problems caused by the encephalocele. The long-term treatment depends on the child’s condition, which can vary.
Before
Children like Christian from Uganda rely on the support and generosity of people like you to receive surgery and comprehensive care offered at CURE hospitals.
We treat encephalocele at CURE Children’s Hospitals of Uganda.
After
Children like Christian from Uganda rely on the support and generosity of people like you to receive surgery and comprehensive care offered at CURE hospitals.
We treat encephalocele at CURE Children’s Hospitals of Uganda.
