Will the brain catch up

[grammy67]

My daughter's ultra sound shows appropriate constant brain development but always with a 10 day lag.  This 10 day lag has been consistent with each ultra sound.  Will the brain eventually "catch up" or does this indicate a significant delay or the potential for a developmental disability.  Each doctor reading the ultra sound continues to assure her that the brain is in the "average range" and there is nothing to worry about.  Ventricules are proper size.

[grammy67]

Thank you for you response to my question.  Since at least 4 neurologists have assured her that the brain development is within the normal range, I will try not to worry!

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

The human brain is not fully myelinated (the insulation that surrounds part of the neurons) until years after birth. As the brain is myelinated (which begins around the 5th fetal month of life), the appearance will change on MRI imaging. Myelination begins in the back and proceeds to the front of the brain. It is difficult to say if your child will “catch up” (since there are MANY etiologies or myelin abnormalities), but it is reassuring that there is no regression or lack of progress. Ultimately, your child may require an MRI of the brain and clinically monitor as he/she develops.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.