Abstract
Cystic periventricular leukomalacia refers to necrosis of the white matter in a characteristic distribution dorsal and lateral to the external angles of the lateral ventricles in preterm infants. The pathogenesis includes either hypoxic-ischaemic lesions resulting from impaired perfusion at the vascular border zones or the role of intra-amniotic infection with toxic effects of endotoxins and cytokines on oligodendrocytes. This overview illustrates the pathogenic theories, risk factors, diagnosis by cranial ultrasonography, and the actual classification. Cystic periventricular leukomalacia is the most severe and frequent cause of cerebral palsy in preterm infants and is almost constantly associated with serious subsequent neuromotor impairments such as diplegia or tetraplegia. Dependant on site and extension of the cysts additionally visual impairments, seizure disorders, hearing impairments, mental retardation, and microcephaly are observed.
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