Hemifacial Microsomia with Extensive Ipsilateral White Matter Hyperintensity: A Case Report
Erin Elizabeth Finn1, Eoin P Flanagan1, John J Chen1,2
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
Case Reports in Neurology
|August 11, 2026
Summary
Hemifacial microsomia can be associated with asymptomatic ipsilateral white matter changes. This case highlights the importance of considering congenital causes for brain abnormalities, avoiding unnecessary tests.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Hemifacial microsomia (HFM) is a congenital condition affecting facial development.
- Asymptomatic ipsilateral cerebral white matter changes are rarely reported with HFM.
- Optic neuropathy and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis can complicate HFM presentations.
