Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum Diagnosed by Pneumoencephalography

It is possible to diagnose agenesis of the corpus callosum during life only by means of pneumoencephalography and there is no characteristic clinical syndrome to suggest the diagnosis. The condition can sometimes be suspected by the changes in carotid angiograms. Cases in children and in adults with examples of the radiographic appearances are presented. It is noteworthy that these patients are apt to develop decompensation of the cerebro-spinal fluid circulation and acute pressure changes. Particularly does this require vigilance after pneumoencephalography in these cases. Exploratory operations have no place in treatment although operations designed to relieve the hydrocephalus may be indicated. Post-mortem examinations have suggested no aetiology peculiar to hydrocephalus associated with agenesis of the corpus callosum.