Encephalomalacia is a condition where the brain becomes soft due to injury, swelling, or inflammation. It can be localized or widespread and can be caused by degeneration or disease. Millard-Gubler syndrome is an example of this condition, which affects the pons and can cause neurological disorders. Treatment involves finding and treating the underlying cause, and in severe cases, removal of the softened brain material may be necessary.
Encephalomalacia is a medical term that refers to a condition that causes the brain to become soft. Also called cerebromalacia or cerebral softening, this abnormal change in the brain is caused by some sort of injury. In case of injury to the brain, swelling and inflammation are initiated, the protective and healing process of the body. In some cases this change in brain size triggers an impairment in the flexibility of the brain.
A softening of the brain can occur in a specific area or it can be widespread. A hemorrhage or hemorrhage in the brain can cause encephalomalacia, which is typically seen in a localized area where there is an abnormal collection of blood. Although rare, extensive softening of the brain can also be caused by degeneration or deterioration of the brain. This decline in brain tissue could be the result of a health condition or a disease process.
Millard-Gubler syndrome, a rare circumstance of impaired physical well-being, is an example of this condition. This disorder of unknown origin causes a one-sided change in the texture of the brain. This health condition is caused by an obstruction of blood flow to the pons.
The pons is a part of the brain located on the brainstem. It is made up of small, paired log-like structures that form a bridge to connect different areas of the brain. It also serves as a pathway for neurological or nerve signals to relay information to various areas of the body. The pons controls bodily functions such as bladder control, sleep, breathing and balance. It is also responsible for controlling the sensations and movements of the face.
Because the pons is connected to several cranial nerves, brain softening due to Millard-Gubler syndrome and related encephalomalacia is considered a neurological disorder. The problems can irritate the nerves in the face which in turn can affect eye movement and facial sensations or feelings. In extreme cases it can also result in a condition called contralateral or cross hemiplegia. This form of paralysis or inability to move affects the side opposite the encephalomalacia.
Treatment is to find and treat the underlying cause of the change in the mass or texture of the brain. In severe cases, removal of the softened brain material may be necessary. It’s unclear whether the soft brain tissue will ever return to normal. It’s also unclear whether functional mobility or sensations impaired by brain texture changes will return to normal once those areas are removed.
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