Familial schizencephaly

Schizencephaly is a brain malformation characterized by infolding of cortical gray matter along a hemispheric cleft near the primary cerebral fissures. Although the etiology is unknown, genetic counseling has not been advocated because of its sporadic occurrence. We describe a family with two affected siblings. Both cases were characterized by hemiparesis, lack of gestational or postnatal complications, and diagnostic radiologic findings. We raise the possibility of a genetic etiology in some cases of schizencephaly and suggest a re-examination of the need for genetic counseling.