What is PVL?

PVL is a brain injury that results in the death of small areas of brain tissue around the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces of the brain that hold spinal fluid). 

What causes  PVL?

PVL is more common in preterm newborns than in term newborns. A major cause is thought to be poor blood flow to the periventricular areas of the brain, which are fragile and prone to injury.  As with ICH, the more premature and unstable (sick) the baby is, the higher his risk for PVL.

How do we diagnose PVL?

PVL may be suspected in growing babies with abnormal behavior or subtle changes in the neurologic exam. A head ultrasound is a routine test that is used to screen most newborns suspected of having PVL. A CT scan or MRTcan also be helpful in making the diagnosis.

How do we treat infants with PVL?

There is no real treatment for PVL aside from keeping the baby as stable as possible and providing support to the systems in need. Anti-seizure medicines can be given for seizures.  Developmental intervention is an important follow-up.

  CSSD Division of Neurology