Microcephaly is a reduced development of the skull with respect to the reference parameters. If the subject is not suffering from microsomia (insufficient development of the body that is a smaller but proportional, as happens for example in pituitary dwarfism), microcephaly is quite frequently associated with mental retardation.
Microcephaly may have hereditary causes or can be caused by diseases that affect the development of the skull during fetal life: in both cases the psychic functions in most cases are compromised.
What kind of diseases can be associated with microcephaly?
Diseases that may be associated with microcephaly are the following:
- Congenital hypothyroidism
- Infections in pregnancy (rubella, toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus)
- Down syndrome
- Fetal alcohol syndrome
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for microcephaly?
In case of microcephaly it is always good to ask for a second doctor, who will direct you to the specialists best suited for the specific case.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of microcephaly?
In case of microcephaly it is always good to ask for a second doctor, who will direct you to the specialists best suited for the specific case.
