What are the typical symptoms of Dandy-Walker malformation in children?

Dandy-Walker malformation is a congenital brain anomaly characterized by the underdevelopment of the cerebellar vermis and cystic enlargement of the fourth ventricle, leading to associated symptoms primarily related to increased intracranial pressure and developmental delays.

In children, the typical symptoms often include slow motor development, as the condition can affect coordination and balance due to cerebellar involvement. Additionally, progressive skull enlargement can occur as a result of increased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production or obstruction of normal CSF flow, which leads to hydrocephalus. This progressive cranial enlargement is often noticed as the fontanelles (soft spots on an infant’s skull) expand in response to the accumulating CSF.

The other symptoms listed do not align with the typical presentation of Dandy-Walker malformation. Sudden onset headaches and visual disturbances generally suggest increased intracranial pressure resulting from other acute processes. Fever and irritability may indicate an infection or other acute pathological conditions, while seizures and loss of consciousness suggest more severe neurological issues that may not be characteristic of this specific malformation. Hence, slow motor development and progressive skull enlargement are the hallmark signs associated with Dandy-Walker malformation, making the provided answer the most accurate representation