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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffThe primary sign of microcephaly is:
- A head size significantly smaller than that of other children of the same age and sex
Head size is measured as the distance around the top of the child's head (circumference). Using standardized growth charts, the measurement is compared with other children's measurements in percentiles. Some children just have small heads, which may measure in the third, second or even first percentiles. In children with microcephaly, head size measures significantly below the first percentile.
These characteristics may accompany severe microcephaly:
- Backward sloping forehead
- Large ears
- Visual impairment
When to see a doctor
Chances are your doctor will detect microcephaly at the baby's birth or at a regular well-baby checkup. However, if you think your baby's head is smaller than normal or isn't growing as it should, talk to your doctor.
- NINDS microcephaly information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/microcephaly/microcephaly.htm. Accessed Feb. 4, 2010.
- Boom JA. Etiology and evaluation of microcephaly in infants. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 11, 2010.
- Tarrant A, et al. Microcephaly: A radiological review. Pediatric Radiology. 2009;39:722.
- Mochida GH. Genetics and biology of microcephaly and lissencephaly. Seminars in Pediatric Neurology. 2009;16:120.
- 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.
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