Congenital Brain and Bone Malformations

Congenital brain and bone malformations are brain and bone abnormalities that appear from birth. These abnormalities interfere with the normal development of the brain and bones and can have serious consequences. Congenital brain and bone malformations may occur due to genetic factors, infections that the mother had during pregnancy, or the mother's drug use. Since these malformations can be controlled with early diagnosis and treatment, it is important that babies are examined regularly in the first weeks after birth.

In this article, detailed information about congenital brain and bone malformations will be discussed under the following headings:

• What are congenital brain and bone malformations and how do they occur?
• What are the symptoms of congenital brain and bone malformations?
• How is the diagnosis of congenital brain and bone malformations made?
• What is the treatment for congenital brain and bone malformations?

What are Congenital Brain and Bone Malformations and How Do They Occur?

Congenital brain and bone malformations are abnormalities that can interfere with the normal development of the brain and bones and cause serious complications. The following factors are effective in the emergence of these malformations:

• Genetic factors: Some genetic abnormalities can interfere with the normal development of the brain and bones, leading to congenital brain and bone malformations.
• Infections of the mother during pregnancy: For example, infections such as toxoplasmosis may cause abnormalities in the brain and bone tissue, and congenital brain and bone malformations may develop.
• Use of certain drugs by the mother during pregnancy: The use of certain drugs during pregnancy may also cause abnormalities in the brain and bone tissue, leading to congenital brain and bone malformations.

What Are the Symptoms of Congenital Brain and Bone Malformations?

Symptoms of congenital brain and bone malformations can vary depending on where and to what degree the abnormalities are. In general, the symptoms of these malformations are:

• Unexpected physical abnormalities in the baby: For example, the baby may have symptoms such as an abnormal head shape, low weight, and heart rhythm disorders.
• Developmental delays in the baby: The baby may have symptoms such as delayed movements, impaired eye movements, abnormal tongue movements.
• Reflux and vomiting in infants: Reflux and vomiting are frequently seen. These symptoms may occur when the pressure of the accumulated fluid in the brain tissue increases. In addition, the baby has difficulty in eating.

How is the diagnosis of congenital brain and bone malformations made?

Congenital brain and bone malformations can be diagnosed with regular examinations in the first weeks after birth. Doctors can look for abnormalities by examining babies' heads, faces, bodies, and movements. During these examinations, he can notice the signs of malformations by carefully examining the baby's tongue, eyes and other areas.

In addition, the diagnosis is clarified with imaging tests. These tests examine the baby's brain and bones to detect the presence and extent of abnormalities. Ultrasonography, which is used among imaging tests, can be done in the first months of pregnancy and detects the presence of abnormalities in the baby at that time. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) are among the tests used to clarify this diagnosis.

What is the tratment for Congenital Brain and Bone Malformations ?

First of all, the doctor confirms the diagnosis of congenital brain and bone malformations and proceeds to the treatment process. In this process, the aim is to help correct the abnormalities in the brain and bone tissue and to ensure the development of babies by reducing the damage in these tissues. For this purpose, one or more of the following treatment methods can be used:

Surgical

In some cases, abnormalities in the brain and bone tissue can be corrected by surgical intervention. This process properly opens the abnormalities, ensuring the normal development of the brain and bones. The aim of surgical interventions is to eliminate conditions that adversely affect the physical and mental development of the patient.

Medicines

Medication can be used, usually in the form of drugs that support the development of bones or drugs that support brain function. However, the drugs to be used in the treatment of each condition and the determination of their dosage may vary according to the patient's condition and the evaluation made by your doctor. These drugs help correct abnormalities in the brain and bone tissue.

Rehabilitation

Babies with congenital brain and bone malformations can improve their movements and coordination by receiving rehabilitation treatment. This treatment helps restore brain function.