periventricular leukomalacia
Pronunciation: /pɛrɪvɛnˈtrɪkjʊlər lukoʊməˈleɪʃə/
Brain injury in premature infants characterized by death of white matter tissue near the brain's ventricles.
Full Definition
A form of brain injury that predominantly affects very premature infants, characterized by necrosis and softening of white matter adjacent to the lateral ventricles of the brain. PVL occurs due to inadequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to vulnerable areas of developing white matter, often in association with episodes of hypotension or infection. The condition is a major cause of cerebral palsy and developmental delays in survivors of extreme prematurity. Diagnosis is typically made through cranial ultrasound or MRI, showing characteristic cystic changes or increased echogenicity in the periventricular white matter. Long-term outcomes vary depending on the extent and location of the injury.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PVL; grading system may be used to describe severity.
In Context
- "Cranial ultrasound at 4 weeks of age revealed bilateral cystic periventricular leukomalacia requiring neurodevelopmental follow-up." — Radiology report
- "The incidence of periventricular leukomalacia has decreased with improved neonatal care practices and prevention of hypotensive episodes." — Research article