Aicardi Syndrome

Aicardi syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by the partial or complete agenesis (absence) of the corpus callosum (the structure that links the 2 hemispheres of the brain), infantile spasms (a form of childhood seizure), mental retardation, and an ocular (eye) abnormality called lacunae (lesions) of the retina of the eye.

Aicardi syndrome may be associated with other brain defects such as microcephaly (small brain) or porencephalic cysts (cerebrospinal fluid-filled cavities or gaps in the brain). Onset of Aicardi syndrome generally begins between the ages of 3 and 5 months. The disorder affects only females.

Is there any treatment?

There is no cure for Aicardi syndrome nor is there a standard course of treatment. Treatment, which is symptomatic, generally involves management of seizures and intervention programs for mental retardation.

What is the prognosis?

The prognosis for individuals with Aicardi syndrome varies according to the presence and severity of symptoms.

Information provided by the
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke,
National Institutes of Health

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.