Patients with Dandy Walker Syndrome are diagnosed with a malformation of
the brain involving the cerebellum and the space around the cerebellum
that is filled with fluid.

The condition ranges from mild to severe with milder cases causing little effect on growth and development, both physically and mentally. As is the case with many brain malformations or disorders, the severity of physical symptoms are often representative of mental damage.

The most severe cases of Dandy Walker Syndrome end in death early in life or at birth. Children with a milder form of the condition often survive well. In some cases, a shunt may be placed in the brain to drain fluid to prevent swelling of the brain.

Dandy Walker Syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs in 1 out of 25,000 pregnancies. Female infants are more likely to suffer from Dandy Walker Syndrome than boys. Dandy Walker Syndrome is named for Arthur Earl Walker and Walter Dandy.