focal cortical dysplasia
Also written as: FCD — Focal cortical dysplasia
A localized malformation of cortical development characterized by abnormal neuronal organization, often causing medically refractory epilepsy.
Full Definition
Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a congenital abnormality of cortical development characterized by disrupted cortical architecture, abnormal neuronal migration, and dysplastic neurons within a localized brain region. FCD is classified into types I, II, and III based on histopathological features, with type II being subdivided into IIa and IIb. Type IIb, which includes balloon cells, is most commonly associated with medically intractable epilepsy in children. FCD is a common cause of drug-resistant epilepsy in pediatric patients and often requires surgical resection for seizure control.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as FCD; classification system (type I, II, III) should be specified when known.
In Context
- "Histopathology revealed focal cortical dysplasia type IIb with balloon cells." — Surgical pathology report
- "The child's refractory epilepsy was attributed to focal cortical dysplasia in the right frontal lobe." — Presurgical evaluation