Types of Encephalocele by Location
Occipital encephalocele
An occipital encephalocele is an encephalocele at the back of the head, in the region of the occipital bone.
In short: Occipital encephalocele
- It is the most common type in North America and Europe.
- It can be associated with hydrocephalus and other brain findings.
- It generally carries a more guarded outlook than anterior types.
- Earlier repair of some posterior encephaloceles can help prevent complications.
What it is
It is a posterior encephalocele protruding through the occipital bone at the back of the skull. As the most common type in Western countries, it is often what people picture when they hear "encephalocele."
Understanding Occipital encephalocele
Because it involves the back of the brain, an occipital encephalocele is evaluated carefully for its contents and for associated conditions such as hydrocephalus, Chiari III malformation, and cortical malformations. Whether the sac contains functional brain tissue is a central question, assessed by imaging. It generally carries a more guarded outlook than anterior types, though the outcome depends on contents and associated findings rather than location alone.
Why it matters
Understanding that occipital encephaloceles are commonly evaluated for associated brain findings helps families see why imaging extends beyond the sac. The location is one factor among several that shape the plan and the outlook.
Common questions
Is occipital the most common type?
Yes, in Western countries.
Does it always contain brain tissue?
Not always — imaging determines the contents.
What conditions are associated with it?
Hydrocephalus and, in some cases, Chiari III malformation.
Bottom line
An occipital encephalocele is the common back-of-head type, evaluated closely for contents and associated conditions.
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