Best Case Scenario

I'm just calling to let you know that I'm OK!

The news we were hoping for

It was a long day waiting until 2.30pm for our appointment with Felix's Paediatrician today, but the news we received was worth the wait. I'm not a Doctor, but I will try and explain what the report from the MRI showed. 

The lateral ventricles in Felix's brain are dilated, which means there is more fluid present inside them than there should be. It also shows that the lower part of the cerebral aqueduct (which is the 'tube' between the 3rd and 4th ventricle) is a bit swollen, which could indicate a slight blockage of some kind. They can also see a line across the aqueduct which may be some sort of webbing (which wouldn't allow for fluid to drain properly) or it could just be a blood vessel.

What does that mean?

Thankfully, the Paediatrician was able to explain to us what all of this means, and at this stage it doesn't appear as sinister as it sounds. 

The Paediatrician seems to think that the fluid on Felix's brain was missed on the ultrasound he had when he was a day old, and it has been there all along like it was when I was pregnant. This itself is a very good sign, because if it was going to cause him any problems, they probably would have occurred already and his growth and development would have been affected, which they haven't.

Precious boy

He believes that one of two things may be happening. Either Felix's brain was damaged slightly when he was developing in the womb (nothing to do with Down Syndrome) and the space around the ventricles which was damaged left a gap which was filled by the fluid; or there is a slight blockage or narrowing of the aqueduct which is allowing for some fluid to drain, but not as quickly as it should. He thinks that, all things considered, it is probably the first thing.

What's next?

We are going to have a follow up MRI scan in 12 months time. If the results show no change, then we won't need to do another one for about 5 years which would be wonderful! In the meantime we have to observe Felix. If he shows any signs of headaches, delays in learning (more than would be expected with DS), behavioural changes or discomfort, he will need an MRI immediately. If he keeps developing the way he is (the Paediatrician is very impressed with our little guy), then we can safely wait the 12 months until the next scan.

Breathing easier

It's a happy day!

We are ecstatic!! Felix is so unbelievably precious to us. The thought that something might be wrong with him which could affect the way he was learning or cause him pain, was unbearable at times. I don't think I will breathe completely easily until after his next MRI, but I'm a lot more confident now that all will be well and there will be no change. 

Thank you to all of you who sent messages of support and said prayers for our family. We appreciate each and every one of you. It is so nice to know that we are in your thoughts and you are taking this journey with us. Thank you so much!