STURGE-WEBER SYNDROME

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is a neurological (nervous system) condition. It is present at birth. SWS causes blood vessels to grow too much, forming growths called angiomas. These angiomas can lead to a port-wine birthmark on the face. They can also grow in the brain and cause symptoms such as seizures. With appropriate treatment, many people live a healthy life with SWS.

AFFECTION OF STURGE WEBER SYNDROME STURGE-WEBER SYNDROME OVER BODY: -

 It causes blood vessels to grow too much, forming growths called angiomas. Often, the first sign of SWS is a port-wine stain birthmark on the forehead and upper eyelid. Port-wine birthmarks look like dark red wine splashed on the skin. This birthmark occurs when too many blood vessels grow in the skin. Port-wine birthmarks are not dangerous or harmful. Many children with port-wine stain don’t have any other major issues.

Angiomas can also form in the brain. In some children, this leads to problems with their:

• Endocrine system.
• Nervous system.
• Vision.

Rarity of the syndrome: - Sturge-Weber syndrome is rare. By some estimates, only one in 20,000-50,000 newborns have the condition. About three in 1,000 babies are born with a port-wine birthmark. Only about 6% of babies (around one in 20) with the birthmark also have neurological symptoms.

SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES:-The cause of Sturge-Weber syndrome is a mutation in the GNAQ gene. This type of gene mutation occurs randomly in the developing embryo, affecting only certain tissues in the body. It is not hereditary (inherited from your parents).

SYMPTOMS OF STURGE-WEBER SYNDROME: -

Symptoms of Sturge - Weber syndrome can vary significantly. People with SWS may experience:

Facial birthmark.

Glaucoma, a condition in which the pressure inside the eyeballs is high. It can cause pain, swelling and — in severe cases — vision loss.

• Seizures.
• Developmental delays.
• Headaches or migraines.
• Hypothyroidism.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS:-

Often, the first step in diagnosing Sturge-Weber syndrome is a healthcare provider noticing and examining the port-wine birthmark. Babies born with the birthmark may also have tests to check for issues with their brain and eyes. Tests may include:

• MRI of their brain with and without contrast.
• CT of their brain may help to detect excess calcium deposits.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) in children with seizures.
• A comprehensive eye exam, including pressure measurements.

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT OF STURGE WEBER SYNDROME: -

Homoeopathic medicines treat the person as a whole. It means Homoeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person,as well as his pathological condition. The Homeopathic medicines are selected after full individualizing examination and case analysis which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution,family history, presenting complaints etc.

The medicines that can be thought of are:-

• Acetic acid
• Arnica
• Arsenic
• Calcarea
• Fluoric acid
• Lachesis
• Lycopodium
• Medorrhinum etc.