Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum

Agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) is a rare congenital disorder marked by the complete or partial absence of tissue that connects the brain’s two hemispheres. The causes of this disorder are typically unknown though in some cases it can be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait or X-linked dominant trait, can be caused by an injury or infection in the early stages of pregnancy or be the result of the fetus’ exposure to alcohol (Fetal alcohol syndrome). Symptoms of ACC may include epileptic seizures, feeding problems, delay in the baby’s ability to hold the head erect, impaired mental and physical development, nonprogressive mental retardation and the accumulation of fluid in the skull (hydrocephalus). Treatment for ACC is not uniform but typically involves managing symptoms and seizures as they occur. Early recognition and therapy prove especially effective for making difficulties associated with the disorder much more manageable. Rare disease organizations like NORD and Global Genes exist to provide resources and support to individuals and families affected by rare disease. Information provided in part by our partner NORD.