A rare condition called dandy walker syndrome affects the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for movement, balance, and coordination, as well as the ventricles, which are fluid-filled spaces around the cerebellum. There are a variety of symptoms associated with dandy walker syndrome, depending on the severity of the condition and the presence of other associated conditions. Some of the common symptoms include:
Increased head size or bulging at the back of the skull
Slow motor development or difficulty with walking, running, or other activities
Poor muscle tone or weakness
Problems with vision, hearing, or speech
Learning difficulties or intellectual disability
Seizures or abnormal eye movements
Breathing problems or heart defects
Although it is not known what causes dandy walker syndrome, it is believed that the development of the cerebellum and ventricles during the early stages of pregnancy is affected by a genetic mutation or an environmental factor. The following risk factors may contribute to this condition:
Having a family history of dandy walker syndrome or other brain malformations
Having a chromosomal abnormality, such as an extra or missing piece of a chromosome
Having a maternal infection, such as rubella, cytomegalovirus, or toxoplasmosis, during pregnancy
Having exposure to certain medications, toxins, or substances that can cause birth defects, such as alcohol, drugs, or radiation, during pregnancy
Having diabetes or other health conditions that can affect the development of the fetus
Depending on the availability and accuracy of diagnostic tests, dandy walker syndrome can be diagnosed before or after birth. Diagnostic tests include:
Prenatal ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the fetus and can detect abnormalities in the brain and the skull
Fetal MRI, which uses magnetic fields to create detailed images of the fetus and can provide more information about the brain and the ventricles
Postnatal CT scan or MRI, which can confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the condition and the presence of other complications
Genetic testing, which can identify any chromosomal or genetic abnormalities that may be associated with dandy walker syndrome
There is no cure for dandy walker syndrome, but the treatment options depend on the symptoms and the complications that the person has. Some of the possible treatments include:
Surgery, which can help to drain the excess fluid from the brain and reduce the pressure and the swelling, or to correct any other structural problems, such as a cyst or a heart defect
Medication, which can help to control seizures, infections, or pain
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy, which can help to improve the motor skills, the muscle strength, the coordination, and the communication skills
Special education, behavioral therapy, or counseling, which can help to address the learning difficulties, the emotional issues, or the social challenges
There is no known way to prevent dandy walker syndrome, but some of the measures that can reduce the risk of having a child with the condition include:
Having regular prenatal care and screening tests to monitor the health of the mother and the fetus
Avoiding any infections, medications, toxins, or substances that can harm the development of the fetus
Taking folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects
Seeking genetic counseling if there is a family history of dandy walker syndrome or other brain malformations
