About Neurocutaneous Syndromes Neurocutaneous syndromes are disorders that lead to growth of tumors in various parts of the body. They’re caused by the abnormal development of cells in an embryo and characterized by the tumors in various parts of the body (including the nervous system) and by certain differences in …
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Neurofibromatosis
About Neurofibromatosis Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a neurocutaneous syndrome that can affect many parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, nerves, skin, and other body systems. NF can cause growth of non-cancerous (benign) tumors involving the nerves and brain. NF can range from mild to severe. Some children live …
Raising a Child With Autism: Paige and Iain’s Story
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental conditions that involve delayed or impaired communication and social skills, behaviors, and cognitive skills. Symptoms of ASDs range from mild to severe. As a result, each child — and family — coping with autism has a unique set of challenges. Below, …
Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is a birth defect that happens when a baby’s backbone (spine) does not form normally. As a result, the spinal cord and the nerves that branch out of it may be damaged. The term spina bifida comes from Latin and literally means “split” or “open” spine. This defect …
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
Spinal muscular atrophy, or SMA, is an inherited condition that causes nerve cells in the lower part of the brain and spinal cord to break down and die. When this happens, the brain stops sending signals to the body’s muscles. Babies with SMA can have difficulty crawling, walking, or even …
Strokes
Like most people, you probably think that strokes only happen in adults — especially older adults. But kids can have strokes, too. Although they’re less common in kids, strokes occur in children of all ages, even those who haven’t been born yet. About Strokes A stroke is a biological event …
Tourette Syndrome
Tourette syndrome is a condition that causes uncontrolled sudden, repetitive muscle movements and sounds known as tics. Tourette symptoms typically appear in childhood, usually when kids are between 5–9 years old. It’s not very common, and boys are more likely to be affected than girls. The tics associated with Tourette syndrome …
What Is Pompe Disease?
My friend’s 9-year-old daughter was just diagnosed with Pompe disease. I’d like to reach out to her and offer my support, but I’m not sure how. Can you tell me a little about this disease and what to expect? – Ali Pompe disease is a genetic condition that can be …
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries
About ACL Injuries Knee injuries can happen in active kids, especially athletes, and a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) — a ligament that helps give the knee its stability — is one of the most serious types of knee injuries. Kids who get ACL injuries tend to play contact sports …
Blount Disease
Blount disease is a growth disorder that affects the bones of the lower leg, causing them to bow outward. In younger kids, just the tibia (shin bone) is affected. In teens, it’s usually both the tibia and the femur (thigh bone). Many babies are born with slightly bowed legs from …