Schizencephaly: association with young maternal age, alcohol use, and lack of prenatal care

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Kira A Dies1, Adria Bodell, Fuki M Hisama

  • 1Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. kira.dies@childrens.harvard.edu

Journal of Child Neurology
|December 26, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Schizencephaly, a brain malformation, may be linked to nongenetic factors. Young maternal age, no prenatal care, and alcohol consumption during pregnancy were identified as significant risk factors.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Medical Genetics

Background:

  • Schizencephaly is a rare cortical malformation defined by gray matter-lined clefts.
  • Clinical symptoms vary, including motor/cognitive deficits and epilepsy.
  • Causes are diverse, encompassing genetic factors (e.g., EMX2 mutations) and environmental influences.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify potential risk factors for schizencephaly.
  • To investigate the association between maternal and environmental factors and schizencephaly occurrence.

Main Methods:

  • A survey was conducted with 48 parents/caretakers of schizencephaly patients.
  • Data collected retrospectively for patients born between 1983 and 2004.
  • Statistical analysis to identify significant risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Young maternal age was significantly associated with increased risk.
  • Lack of prenatal care emerged as a notable risk factor.
  • Alcohol use during pregnancy showed a significant correlation with schizencephaly.

Conclusions:

  • Nongenetic, intrauterine factors play a crucial role in schizencephaly development.
  • Maternal age, prenatal care access, and alcohol consumption are modifiable risk factors.
  • Findings suggest a need for targeted prenatal care and awareness campaigns.

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