microcephaly
Pronunciation: my-kroh-SEF-ah-lee
A neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a significantly smaller than normal head circumference, typically more than 2-3 standard deviations below the mean.
Full Definition
Microcephaly can be present at birth (primary) or develop postnatally (secondary) due to various genetic, infectious, or environmental factors. Primary microcephaly is often genetic, while secondary microcephaly may result from conditions like congenital infections (TORCH), hypoxic-ischemic injury, or metabolic disorders. The condition is associated with intellectual disability, developmental delays, and sometimes epilepsy. Diagnosis is made through serial head circumference measurements and neuroimaging to assess brain structure.
Usage
Usage note: Single word. Distinguish from other causes of small head size in documentation.
In Context
- "The newborn's head circumference was 30 cm, consistent with severe microcephaly." — Birth examination
- "Genetic testing was ordered to determine the underlying cause of the primary microcephaly." — Genetics referral