Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
microcephaly
Pronunciation: MY-kro-SEF-ah-lee
Abnormally small head circumference, typically below the 3rd percentile for age and sex.
Full Definition
A neurological condition characterized by an abnormally small head circumference, usually defined as more than two standard deviations below the mean for age and sex. Microcephaly may be present at birth (congenital) or develop postnatally, and can result from various genetic, infectious, or environmental factors. The condition often correlates with intellectual disability and developmental delays.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify percentile measurements when documenting; distinguish from secondary microcephaly due to brain injury.
In Context
- "The newborn's head circumference measured at the 1st percentile, prompting evaluation for microcephaly." — birth record documentation
- "Serial head circumference measurements confirmed progressive microcephaly in the 6-month-old infant." — pediatric progress note
Also known as
small head circumference
Contrasted with
macrocephaly
Don't confuse with
macrocephaly
hydrocephalus