Microcephaly
On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about microcephaly.
What is Microcephaly?
Microcephaly is a congenital defect where a child’s head is smaller than expected compared to children of the same sex and age. Often, children with microcephaly have smaller brains that may not have developed properly.
What are the symptoms of Microcephaly?
- Many children born with microcephaly may not show any other symptoms at birth, but they may experience:
- Feeding problems.
- Hearing andvision problems.
- Seizures.
- Developmental delays, or difficulties in learning how to speak, stand, and walk.
Intellectual disabilities (learning difficulties).
In some cases, children with microcephaly grow and develop completely normally.
What arethe causesof Microcephaly?
- The causes of microcephaly in mostchildren are unknown. Some children havemicrocephaly due to genetic changes. Othercauses of microcephaly, including severe microcephaly,may include exposure during pregnancy to:
- Certain infections during pregnancy, such as rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, or Zika virus.
- Severe malnutrition, meaning a lack of nutrients or not getting enough food.
- Exposure to harmful substances, such as alcohol, certain drugs, or toxic chemicals.
- Disruption of blood flow to the baby’s brain during development.
- Prenatal and perinatal injuries (such asoxygen deprivation, ischemia, or trauma)..
Genetic abnormalities like Down syndrome.
How is Microcephaly diagnosed?:
- The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Ultrasound testing during pregnancy.
After the baby is born, the newborn’s head circumference is measured. The doctor then compares this measurement to the standards for newborns by sex and age.
What are the treatments for Microcephaly?
- There is no cure for microcephaly, and it persists throughout the child’s life. The full impact of microcephaly on the child may not be obvious until the child grows and develops. Monitoring microcephaly may include:
- Repeated examinations and tests to monitor head development as the child grows.
- Treatment for the child’s ongoing health issues.
Developing social capabilities at home and in the community, which may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.
How can Microcephaly be prevented?
- Microcephaly is linked to various causes. In some cases, microcephaly can be prevented by avoiding and controlling these causes:
- Screening for conditions like Down syndrome during prenatal visits. This condition cannot be prevented, but you can find support for yourself and your child.
- Eating a healthy diet duringpregnancy and attending prenatal check-ups..
- Avoiding drug use, prohibited substances, and alcohol consumption, especially during pregnancy.
- Preventing infections during pregnancy by:
- Protecting yourself from sexually transmitted diseases.
- Avoiding contactwith infectedpersons.
Talking to your doctor about any recommended vaccinations.
What are the complications of Microcephaly?
- Children with microcephaly may suffer from a range ofother issues, depending on the severity of the condition..
- Seizures.
- Developmental delays, like speech difficulties or other challenges (such as sitting, standing, and walking).
- Intellectual disability (reduced ability to learn and function in daily life).
- Movement and balance issues.
- Feeding problems, such as difficulty swallowing..
- Hearing loss.
Vision problems.
When should you see a doctor?
A pregnant woman should follow up with her doctor and healthcare provider from the beginning of the pregnancy to monitor the pregnancy and get health consultations from the start to avoid any complications for the mother or the fetus.
FAQ:
Is Microcephaly hereditary?
Microcephaly is a health condition resulting from complications of diseases, infections, or certain unhealthy behaviors, such as taking certain prohibited medications during pregnancy.
- What are the important drugs to avoid during pregnancy to prevent complications for the mother and fetus?
- Accutane and vitamin A derivatives for acne.
- Someepilepsy medications..
- Some immunosuppressive drugs are used inrheumatic diseases, lupus, and psoriasis..
Contraceptives may leadto miscarriage..
