The absence of the septum pellucidum membrane in the brain can lead to various unusual behaviors in children, such as vision impairments, cognitive issues, and seizures. The septum pellucidum, also known as the translucent hedge, is a thin triangular membrane that separates the anterior horns of the right and left lateral ventricles of the brain. Positioned in the midline between the cerebral hemispheres, it attaches to the topmost part of the corpus callosum, which connects the two hemispheres, and extends as a sheet down to the fornix. While the absence of the septum pellucidum alone is not a disorder, it is often observed in children with septo-optic dysplasia, a condition characterized by abnormalities in the development of the optic nerve, pituitary gland, and sometimes other brain structures.
How is Absent Septum Pellucidum Treated
Children who experience the absence of the septum pellucidum are at an increased risk of developing additional issues such as pituitary deficiencies and septo-optic dysplasia, a disorder characterized by abnormal development of the optic disk. While the absence of the septum pellucidum by itself is not classified as a disorder, when it co-occurs with septo-optic dysplasia, the prognosis can vary depending on the presence and severity of associated symptoms.
Who Is at Higher Risk of Developing Absent Septum Pellucidum
The absence of the septum pellucidum can give rise to an underlying disorder, the symptoms of which can be challenging to determine. These symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s condition, but some common ones include:
– Vision impairment, ranging from blindness to poor sight
– Hormonal imbalance
– Inward and/or outward deviation of the eyes
– Learning disabilities
– Low muscle tone
– Developmental delay
– Jaundice
– Seizures
The septum pellucidum plays a crucial role in informing the rest of the body about its condition. It regulates aspects such as sleep, dietary changes, and environmental safety. Its absence can disrupt these functions, affecting how the brain communicates with the body to signal any problems. Individuals with septum pellucidum issues often exhibit characteristics such as short stature, increased weight, and a high body mass index (BMI).
Is Treatment Possible for Absent Septum Pellucidum
The absence of the septum pellucidum is not a disease itself but rather a characteristic frequently observed in children with septo-optic dysplasia. While certain treatments target issues related to the septum pellucidum directly, others focus on preventing or managing underlying problems associated with conditions like systemic steroids and tumor excision.
Additional treatments include:
Patients with an absent septum pellucidum can lead normal lives with appropriate treatment and care. Various treatment options are available for associated conditions:
– Surgical treatment for cataracts
– Systemic steroids for optic neuritis and Tolosa-Hunt syndrome
– Topical antiglaucoma medications for glaucoma
– Systemic acyclovir for herpes zoster
– Neurosurgical intervention or systemic steroids for pituitary apoplexy
With proper medical care under the supervision of a certified doctor, the after-effects of this condition can be effectively managed, allowing patients to lead fulfilling lives.