Microcephaly

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Coping and support

By Mayo Clinic staff

When you learn your child has microcephaly, you may experience a range of emotions, including anger, fear, worry, sorrow and guilt. You may not know what to expect, and you may worry about your child's future. The best antidote for fear and worry is information and support. Prepare yourself:

  • Find a team of trusted professionals. You'll need to make important decisions about your child's education and treatment. Seek a team of doctors, teachers and therapists you trust. These professionals can help evaluate the resources in your area and help explain state and federal programs for children with disabilities.
  • Seek out other families who are dealing with the same issues. Your community may have support groups for parents of children with developmental disabilities. You may also find Internet support groups.
References
  1. NINDS microcephaly information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/microcephaly/microcephaly.htm. Accessed Feb. 4, 2010.
  2. Boom JA. Etiology and evaluation of microcephaly in infants. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 11, 2010.
  3. Tarrant A, et al. Microcephaly: A radiological review. Pediatric Radiology. 2009;39:722.
  4. Mochida GH. Genetics and biology of microcephaly and lissencephaly. Seminars in Pediatric Neurology. 2009;16:120.
  5. Mighell AS, et al. Post-natal investigations: Management and prognosis for fetuses with CNS anomalies identified in utero excluding neurosurgical problems. Prenatal Diagnosis. 2009;29:442.
DS01169 March 19, 2010

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