Microcephaly

Definition

Microcephaly is a medical condition where an infant's head is significantly smaller than expected, often due to abnormal brain development. It can be caused by various factors including genetic anomalies and infections during pregnancy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Microcephaly can result from congenital infections such as Zika virus, which disrupts normal brain development.
2. Symptoms of microcephaly include intellectual disability, speech delay, and motor function impairment.
3. Acellular pathogens like viruses are common causes of microcephaly because they can cross the placental barrier and affect fetal development.
4. Diagnosis often involves prenatal imaging techniques like ultrasound or postnatal measurements of head circumference.
5. There is no cure for microcephaly, but early intervention therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Review Questions

• What are some common viral causes of microcephaly?
• How is microcephaly diagnosed both prenatally and postnatally?
• What types of developmental impairments are associated with microcephaly?

Related terms

Congenital Infection: An infection present at birth acquired from the mother during pregnancy.

Zika Virus:

A mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe birth defects including microcephaly.

Neurodevelopmental Disorder: A condition that affects the growth and development of the central nervous system.