pachygyria
Pronunciation: pak-ee-GY-ree-ah
A malformation of cortical development characterized by abnormally thick, broad gyri with shallow sulci, representing incomplete neuronal migration.
Full Definition
Pachygyria is a disorder of cortical development resulting from abnormal neuronal migration during fetal brain development. The condition is characterized by gyri that are broader and thicker than normal, with correspondingly shallow sulci, giving the brain surface a simplified appearance. Pachygyria exists on a spectrum with lissencephaly (smooth brain), representing a milder form of the same developmental abnormality. Children with pachygyria typically present with developmental delays, intellectual disability, and seizures that may be difficult to control.
Usage
Usage note: Part of the lissencephaly spectrum; do not confuse with polymicrogyria which has too many small folds.
In Context
- "MRI revealed bilateral pachygyria involving the frontal and parietal regions." — Radiology report
- "The patient's developmental delays were attributed to pachygyria identified on neuroimaging." — Neurology consultation