Radiologic classification of malformations of cortical development

Malformations of cerebral cortical development are common birth defects tha t can cause delayed development, epilepsy, focal neurologic deficits, and m ental retardation. Rational classification of these disorders is essential for proper prognosis, genetic testing and counseling, and investigation of the underlying molecular causes. A rational approach to this classification is a framework based on whether these disorders are the result of abnormal cell proliferation or apoptosis, abnormal migration of immature neurons, o r abnormal horizontal and radial orientation in the cortex. Superimposed on this framework are subclassifications that are based on topology of the ma lformation, associated central nervous system (CNS) or extra-CNS malformati ons, and results of molecular genetic testing. Characteristics that correla te with and enforce this system of classification can be identified by mode rn neuroimaging studies. Curr Opin Neurol 14:145-149 (C) 2001 Lippincott Wi lliams & Wilkins.