microcephaly
Pronunciation: mahy-kroh-SEF-uh-lee
A condition where a baby's head circumference is significantly smaller than expected for age and sex.
Full Definition
Microcephaly is defined as a head circumference more than two standard deviations below the mean for age, sex, and ethnicity. This condition can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developing after birth due to injury, infection, or other causes). In pediatric neurology, microcephaly often indicates abnormal brain development and may be associated with intellectual disability, seizures, developmental delays, and various genetic syndromes. The condition can be isolated or part of a broader syndrome requiring comprehensive neurological evaluation.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify measurement in standard deviations below mean and distinguish from normal variant small head size.
In Context
- "Serial head circumference measurements confirmed progressive microcephaly in the 6-month-old patient." — Pediatric neurology follow-up note