Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome: a case report

BACKGROUND: Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome is a rare condition of unknown frequency resulting from brain injury due to a multitude of causes; especially in early life. Characteristics include cerebral hemiatrophy/hypoplasia, contralateral hemiparesis, seizures, and compensatory osseous hypertrophy. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of a 13-year-old girl who initially presented with headaches, followed by episodic complex-partial seizures; which was controlled via medication. She also had right sided hemiparesis. Computed tomography (CT) showed evidence of left parieto-temporal infarct with cerebral atrophy. Complementary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) did not reveal additional information. Workup for young stroke was negative. Upon further evaluation by Neuroradiology, features suggesting Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome were confirmed. Patient has been under Neurology follow up since. CONCLUSIONS: Due to its rarity, Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome may easily be missed by the majority of treating clinicians. Knowledge of its features on imaging enables timely and accurate diagnosis – allowing appropriate management.