Microcephaly

Overview

Microcephaly (my-kroh-SEF-uh-lee) is a rare neurological condition in which an infant's head is much smaller than the heads of other children of the same age and sex. It often occurs when there is a problem with brain development in the womb or when the brain stops growing after birth. Microcephaly can be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Children with microcephaly often have developmental issues, but there's no treatment for it. Early intervention with speech, occupational, and other supportive therapies may help enhance a child's development and improve quality of life. The primary symptom of microcephaly is having a head size that is much smaller than that of other children of the same age and sex.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The primary symptom of microcephaly is having a head size that is much smaller than that of other children of the same age and sex.

Development

Microcephaly can develop due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the causes include:

1. Developmental delays, including speech and movement difficulties
2. Dwarfism or short stature
3. Facial distortions
4. Hyperactivity
5. Intellectual delays
6. Seizures In some cases, microcephaly may result from genetic changes, such as Down syndrome. Other factors that can contribute to microcephaly include exposure to drugs, alcohol, or certain toxic chemicals during pregnancy, severe malnutrition, and certain infections passed to the fetus during pregnancy, such as toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, German measles (rubella), chickenpox (varicella), and Zika virus. Additionally, early fusing of the joints (sutures) between the bony plates that form an infant's skull (craniosynostosis) can also lead to microcephaly. It is essential to work with your healthcare provider to determine the specific cause of microcephaly and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

If you suspect microcephaly in a child, you should see a doctor for an evaluation. Signs and symptoms that may indicate microcephaly include an unusually small head size compared to other children of the same age and sex, as well as a sloping forehead in more severe cases. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any concerns regarding your child's head size or growth. Early intervention with supportive therapies can help enhance the child's development and improve their quality of life.

Diagnosis

To diagnose microcephaly, a healthcare provider will likely take a thorough prenatal, birth, and family history, and perform a physical exam. The provider will measure the circumference of the child's head, compare it with a growth chart, and remeasure and plot the growth at future visits. Parents' head sizes may also be measured to determine if small heads run in the family. If the child's development is delayed, additional tests such as head CT scan, MRI, or blood tests may be ordered to help determine the underlying cause of the delay.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Potential complications of microcephaly may include intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. Microcephaly can result in developmental delays, difficulties with coordination and balance, dwarfism or short stature, facial distortions, hyperactivity, intellectual delays, seizures, and other complications. Without treatment, microcephaly can progress and lead to more severe complications, but the severity of complications can vary depending on the specific case.

Home Remedies

Medical advice should be sought from a healthcare professional for individuals with microcephaly.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for microcephaly. However, early intervention with supportive therapies can help enhance a child's development and improve their quality of life. These therapies may include speech, occupational, and physical therapy. The focus is usually on addressing the developmental issues and helping the child reach their full potential.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for microcephaly, you should:

1. Make a list of your child's symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the appointment.
2. Gather key personal information, such as any major stresses or recent changes in your child's life.
3. Bring a list of your child's medications, including vitamins, herbs, and over-the-counter medicines, along with their dosages.
4. Compare your child's head circumference with growth charts and plot the growth for future visits.
5. Measure the head circumferences of several first-degree relatives, such as parents and siblings, for comparison.
6. Ask your healthcare provider questions about the most likely cause of your child's symptoms, other possible causes, recommended tests, and the best course of action.
7. Consider bringing a family member or friend to the appointment for support and to help remember the information provided. Remember to ask about the best course of action, alternative treatments, and any additional resources or support available.