Lissencephaly, the Umbrella Term

I am sure that since you have found this blog, you already know the word lissencephaly.  Whether you are doing a report or have a child with the disorder, knowing the specifics of lissencephaly is your next goal.  Lissencephaly is an "umbrella term" for a neurological brain disorder.  This term literally means "smooth brain."  The phrase "umbrella term" means that many specific types of lissencephaly are covered underneath this generic term.  Classic lissencephaly may be identified by the smaller than normal head circumference.  Once a child is identified as having lissencephaly, genetic testing and support websites or groups become very important.  Groups such as the National Organization for Rare Disorders(NORD),  National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke(NINDS), and other personal websites and blogs are out there.  Below is the silver ribbon that shows awareness for brain disorders.