Benign Enlargement of Subarachnoid Spaces in Infancy with Developmental Delay

Abstract

Abstract Background Benign enlargement of subarachnoid spaces (BESS) is a common cause of macro crania in infancy and may present with developmental delay due to enlargement of the brain. The self-limiting nature of this condition allows most children to regain developmental milestones as they grow older. The aetiology of developmental delay in full-term infants with BESS is unclear and prognosis varies since only some children have been reported to have long-term deficit in gross motor and language domains. Case presentation: This case report illustrates the clinical profile and findings on brain imaging in a full-term infant who presented with BESS along with delay in attaining age-appropriate gross motor and language milestones. Assessment of developmental milestones at 15 months of age supported the benign nature of this condition although the head circumference remained above the 95th percentile for age. Conclusions Despite the self-resolving nature of this condition, regular evaluation of developmental milestones is necessary to ensure timely intervention in appropriate cases. Further research on the aetiology could also aid clinicians in determining which children are at risk for developing long-term developmental delay.