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Prolonged survival in hydranencephaly: a case report
Cassondra Covington1, Henry Taylor, Chandler Gill
1Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2100 Pierce Avenue, Suite 352 MCS, Nashville, TN 37212, USA.
Insights
Hydranencephaly survivors can live longer than expected, with one case reaching over 20 years. This study compares long-term survivors and discusses implications for minimally conscious states.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Developmental Biology
- Medical Case Studies
Background:
- Hydranencephaly is a severe congenital brain malformation characterized by the absence of cerebral hemispheres.
- Typical prognosis involves limited survival, often not exceeding infancy.
Observation:
- Two previous cases reported hydranencephaly survival beyond 10 years of age.
- This report details the oldest known survivor, a 20-year-old individual with hydranencephaly.
Findings:
- Comparative analysis of behavioral and anatomical features of three long-term hydranencephaly survivors.
- Detailed case study of a 20-year-old individual with hydranencephaly, extending known survival limits.
Implications:
- Discussion of hydranencephaly in the context of the minimally conscious state (MCS).
- Potential insights into brain development, consciousness, and long-term survival in severe congenital conditions.
Abstract:
Individuals with hydranencephaly, a congenital deformity resulting in a virtual absence of cerebral hemispheres, generally do not survive past infancy. Two published cases report survival past the age of 10. We report the oldest known survivor at 20 years, 6 months and compare the behavioral and anatomical characteristics of these three cases. Finally, this condition is discussed in regards to the concept and implications of minimally conscious state (MCS).
