Periventricular Leukomalacia (Pediatric)

What is periventricular leukomalacia (PVL)?

PVL is a type of brain injury common in premature babies. It results from damage to, or underdevelopment of, the white matter of the brain. The white matter transmits information between the nerve cells and the spinal cord, as well as from one part of the brain to another.

Depending on the area of the brain that is affected, infants with PVL may have difficulties in movement and learning disabilities.

How is PVL diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed with ultrasounds of the head, or through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

How is PVL treated?

While there is no treatment for PVL, our physicians carefully monitor newborns in our NICU for this condition. If PVL is detected, we continue to track the baby’s progress after discharge from the hospital.