Author Description

Offering a new and uniquely multidisciplinary approach to malformations of the brain, this book begins with definitions that clarify the different types of malformations. Since malformations occur in a forming brain, neuroembryology and some of the genes guiding normal development are discussed. Causes of malformations--abnormal chromosomes, Mendelian genetics and external teratogens-- are reviewed. After this basic knowledge has been put in place, each "user-friendly" chapter synthesizes the neuropathology, specific embryology related to the pathology to the malformation, and what is known of possible causes and mechanisms by which the malformation occurs. Each chapter also describes the clinical, radiological, chromosomal and genetic aspects of the malformation. The central nervous system in twins and arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is also considered.Generously illustrated, this volume contains instructive pictures of fetal malformations. The chapter on migration disorders contains many gross and microscopic photographs. Destructive lesions, perinatal hemorrhagic and hypoxic-ischemic lesions and early neonatal degenerations are considered in order to differentiate them from malformations. The book concludes with an appendix listing gene loci which have so far been identified for various malformations.