Sturge-Weber Syndrome

What is Sturge-Weber syndrome?

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is a neurocutaneous disorder (affecting the brain and skin) identifiable by the “port-wine stain” (known as an angioma) located on the forehead area around the eye.

In addition to the port-wine stain, children with SWS may experience seizures, weakness on one side of the body (hemiparesis), developmental delays, and increased pressure in the eye (glaucoma).

While not considered to be a genetic trait, SWS is a developmental abnormality of the blood vessels of the face and brain.

Treatment for Sturge-Weber syndrome

Seizures occur in more than 80% of children diagnosed with SWS. Approximately 25% of those children achieve full seizure control with medication, 50% receive partial seizure control, and 25% receive no seizure control from medication. In more severe cases, a hemispherectomy may be performed.

Request an appointment

For more information about Sturge-Weber syndrome or to meet with our doctors, request an appointment at the Epilepsy Center.