What is the primary risk associated with periventricular leukomalacia?

What is the primary risk associated with periventricular leukomalacia?

• A. Cystic lesions in the lateral ventricles
• B. Underdeveloped lungs
• C. Chronic lung disease
• D. Abdominal organs outside the body

Answer: (A)

Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is primarily associated with the presence of cystic lesions in the lateral ventricles of the brain. PVL occurs due to a lack of blood flow or oxygen to the brain's periventricular white matter, leading to small areas of necrosis. As these damaged areas heal, they can form cystic lesions, particularly in the regions adjacent to the lateral ventricles. The presence of these cystic lesions can significantly impact the development and function of the brain, often leading to long-term neurological issues such as motor impairments, cognitive delays, and other disabilities. Understanding the primary risk associated with PVL helps in anticipating potential complications and planning appropriate therapeutic interventions for affected infants. In contrast, other options presented do not directly relate to the primary pathology of PVL. For instance, while underdeveloped lungs and chronic lung disease are associated with premature infants, they are not direct consequences of PVL itself. Similarly, abdominal organs being outside the body relates to a congenital condition such as gastroschisis or omphalocele, which is unrelated to PVL.

Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is primarily associated with the presence of cystic lesions in the lateral ventricles of the brain. PVL occurs due to a lack of blood flow or oxygen to the brain's periventricular white matter, leading to small areas of necrosis. As these damaged areas heal, they can form cystic lesions, particularly in the regions adjacent to the lateral ventricles.

The presence of these cystic lesions can significantly impact the development and function of the brain, often leading to long-term neurological issues such as motor impairments, cognitive delays, and other disabilities. Understanding the primary risk associated with PVL helps in anticipating potential complications and planning appropriate therapeutic interventions for affected infants.

In contrast, other options presented do not directly relate to the primary pathology of PVL. For instance, while underdeveloped lungs and chronic lung disease are associated with premature infants, they are not direct consequences of PVL itself. Similarly, abdominal organs being outside the body relates to a congenital condition such as gastroschisis or omphalocele, which is unrelated to PVL.