microcephaly
Pronunciation: MY-kroh-SEF-ah-lee
A neurological condition characterized by an abnormally small head circumference, indicating impaired brain development.
Full Definition
Microcephaly is a condition in which a baby's head is significantly smaller than expected for babies of the same sex and age. It is defined as a head circumference more than two standard deviations below the mean for gestational age and sex. The condition can be present at birth (congenital) or develop during infancy and childhood. Microcephaly can result from various causes including genetic disorders, infections during pregnancy (such as Zika virus, cytomegalovirus, or toxoplasmosis), exposure to alcohol or drugs during pregnancy, or severe malnutrition. Children with microcephaly often experience developmental delays, intellectual disability, and other neurological problems, though the severity varies widely depending on the underlying cause.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from macrocephaly; often requires measurement against standardized growth charts.
In Context
- "Prenatal ultrasound detected microcephaly at 28 weeks gestation, prompting further genetic counseling." — Obstetric consultation note
- "Children with microcephaly require multidisciplinary follow-up including neurology, genetics, and developmental pediatrics." — Discharge planning summary