There are basically three classified types of HPE.  Lobar which is a mild form of HPE. Semi lobar which is moderate, and Alobar which is severe.

The type that Mia has is as follows. She has semi lobar where the brain is partially divided. She has brain matter in the rear but not the frontal. Children diagnosed with HPE usually have microcephaly (small heads) and hydrocephaly ( fluid in the brain). Other symptoms include  degrees of mental retardation, endocrine abnormalities, and epilepsy.  There are also abnormalities in the gastrointestinal, skeletal and cardiac organ systems.

Some cases also present facial deformities, that may include cebocephaly ( a flat single nostril nose) or hypotelorism (close set eyes. There are more sever forms of deformity that may include cyclopia ( single eye that is central on the face). There are also cases where the proboscis (nose) is located on the forehead. Alot of varying degrees of facial abnormalities occur in HPE.

The cause of HPE is currently unknown. It affects between 5,000-10,000 live births. Studies indicate that only 3% survive the delivery, the majority passing away in the first six months.  There is no known cure for HPE. Most children’s hospitals do some research on this illness yearly. Please help find a cure so these children need not suffer any more.