What does BESSI mean in UNCLASSIFIED
BESSI stands for Benign Enlargement of the Subarachnoid Spaces in Infancy. It is a congenital condition usually referred to as an enlarged cisterna magna, and is characterized by an enlargement of the fluid filled space beneath the arachnoid mater, which is one of the three protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord. Although this disorder does not typically cause any developmental delays or impairments, it can be associated with other neurological disorders such as hydrocephalus (elevated pressure in the skull) and Chiari malformation (disproportionate size between the lower part of the cerebellum and the spinal canal). Children with BESSI often experience delays in overall growth, leading to smaller than average head circumference measured at birth. While there is no known cause for BESSI, it can be detected prenatally through special imaging scans and is most commonly diagnosed after infancy has been reached.
BESSI meaning in Unclassified in Miscellaneous
BESSI mostly used in an acronym Unclassified in Category Miscellaneous that means Benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces in infancy
Shorthand: BESSI,
Full Form: Benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces in infancy
For more information of "Benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces in infancy", see the section below.
Symptoms
The most common symptom associated with BESSI is a delay in overall growth compared to peers of similar age, resulting in smaller than average head circumference at birth. Additionally, due to a decrease in blood flow to the brain, infants with BESSI may have difficulty feeding or have poor muscle tone compared to their peers. As children grow older they may also have issues with balance and coordination that do not improve without intervention.
Diagnosis
BESSI can be diagnosed prenatally through special imaging scans such as ultrasound or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). After infancy has been reached, diagnosis is often made based on clinical findings during physical exams and neurological assessments. Other tests such as MRI scans or Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) may also be performed to help confirm diagnosis.
Treatment
BESSI does not generally require treatment but pediatricians will monitor children closely for potential complications such as hydrocephalus and Chiari malformation caused by this disorder. If these complications are present then additional treatments may be needed including medications, surgeries or therapies depending on severity of symptoms and progression of disease.
Essential Questions and Answers on Benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces in infancy in "MISCELLANEOUS»UNFILED"
What is BESSI?
BESSI stands for Benign Enlargement of the Subarachnoid Spaces in Infancy. It is a condition where the brain and spinal fluid-filled cavities (subarachnoid spaces) become enlarged due to an increase in certain proteins, resulting in an abnormal increase in pressure.
How common is BESSI?
BESSI is relatively rare, affecting approximately 1 in 1,000 newborns.
What are the signs and symptoms of BESSI?
Symptoms of BESSI may include increased head circumference, bulging fontanelle (a soft spot on a baby's head) or fullness over one side of the head above the eyebrow. Additional signs may include changes in behavior or development such as poor feeding, irritability, excessive sleepiness or seizures.
How can I monitor my child for early signs of BESSI?
You should routinely check your child’s head circumference with your pediatrician’s office or at home. Additionally, any changes to your child’s behavior or development should be reported to your pediatrician promptly.
Are there any risks associated with BESSI?
Yes - untreated cases of BESSI may result in severe neurological disabilities including cognitive impairment, intellectual disability and motor dysfunction.
Is there a cure for BESSI?
No - there is no known cure for BESSI. However, early diagnosis and proper management can help minimize neurological damage associated with it.
Are any tests necessary to diagnose BESSI?
Yes - diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan or other imaging techniques may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis of BESSI and rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms such as cerebral edema or hydrocephalus.
How can I manage my child's condition if diagnosed with BESSI?
Depending upon the severity of their condition and age of the patient, treatment options may include medications to reduce pressure within the subarachnoid spaces or surgery to relieve pressure on the affected area by shunting excess fluids away from the brain and spinal cord areas affected by enlargement. Weight gain should also be monitored carefully during infancy and childhood when treating this condition.
Can lifestyle modifications help treat my child's condition if diagnosed with BESSI?
Yes - making modifications to your family’s lifestyle such as maintaining a healthy diet; avoiding smoking; engaging in regular physical activity; teaching positive coping strategies; providing environmental stimulation; ensuring adequate rest/sleep; monitoring/reducing stress levels; providing social support are all important aspects of managing this condition over time.
How long does treatment usually last for patients diagnosed with BESSI?
The length of treatment varies depending on the severity and response to treatment but typically lasts several years.
Final Words:
BESSI is a congenital disorder characterized by an enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces beneath the arachnoid mater which covers the brain and spinal cord. It can lead to delays in growth resulting in smaller than average head circumference at birth but typically does not cause any developmental impairments on its own although it may contribute to other complications such as hydrocephalus or Chiari malformation if left untreated. Diagnosis is made either prenatally through special imaging scans or postnatal through clinical findings while treatment varies depending on severity of symptoms but often requires close monitoring from pediatricians and/or specialists due to associated risks from complications like hydrocephalus or Chiari malformation which could require further medical intervention if present.