Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is a rare disorder that is present at birth. A child with this condition will have a port-wine stain birthmark (usually on the face) and may have nervous system problems.

Encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis; SWS

In many people, the cause of Sturge-Weber is due to a mutation of the GNAQ gene. This gene affects small blood vessels called capillaries in some but not all body cells. Problems in the capillaries cause the port-wine stains to form.

Sturge-Weber is not thought to be passed down (inherited) through families.

Symptoms of SWS include:

• Port-wine stain (more common on the upper face and eye-lid than the rest of the body)
• Seizures
• Headache
• Paralysis or weakness on one side
• Learning disabilities
• Glaucoma (very high fluid pressure in the eye)
• Low thyroid (hypothyroidism)

Treatment is based on the person's signs and symptoms, and may include:

• Anticonvulsant medicines for seizures
• Eye drops or surgery to treat glaucoma
• Laser therapy for port-wine stains
• Physical therapy for paralysis or weakness
• Possible brain surgery to prevent seizures

More information and support for people with SWS and their families can be found at:

• The Sturge-Weber Foundation -- sturge-weber.org
• National Organization for Rare Disorders -- rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/sturge-weber-syndrome/#supporting-organizations
• NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center -- rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/7706/sturge-weber-syndrome

SWS is usually not life threatening. The condition does need regular lifelong follow-up. The person's quality of life depends on how well their symptoms (such as seizures) can be prevented or treated.

The person will need to visit an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) at least once a year to treat glaucoma. They also will need to see a neurologist to treat seizures and other nervous system symptoms.

These complications can occur:

• Abnormal blood vessel growth in the skull
• Continued growth of the port-wine stain
• Developmental delays
• Emotional and behavioral problems
• Glaucoma, which may lead to blindness
• Paralysis
• Seizures

Seizures, vision problems, paralysis, and changes in alertness or mental state may mean the coverings of the brain are involved. These symptoms should be evaluated right away.

There is no known prevention.

Published Date: November 01, 2021
Published By: Anna C. Edens Hurst, MD, MS, Associate Professor in Medical Genetics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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