Microcephaly is a rare birth defect in which the baby’s head is smaller than normal. As the brain of the baby grows during pregnancy, the head also grows. If the baby’s brain doesn’t grow normally or stops growing, microcephaly results.

This birth defect has been the center of attention recently because of its possible link to the Zika virus  infection during pregnancy.

What are the causes of microcephaly ?

The exact cause is unknown. However chromosomal abnormalities   may be a possible cause as well as the following :

• Infections to the fetus during pregnancy .These include  rubella, cytoglomerovirus or toxoplasmosis
• severe malnutrition
• exposure to harmful substances such as alcohol, toxic chemicals or certain drugs during pregnancy

Are there any associated complications ?

Some children with this condition  have normal intelligence even though they will always have a smaller head size than normal. However, depending on the cause of this condition, complications that may arise include the following :

• developmental delays such as speech delay  and delay in  other milestones such as  sitting, standing, walking
• mental retardation
• facial distortion
• feeding problems such as difficulty swallowing
• hearing loss
• vision problems
• difficulty with coordination and balance
• seizures
• short stature

How is microcephaly diagnosed ?

It can be diagnosed during pregnancy or after birth. It can be diagnose during a  late second trimester ultrasound or an early third trimester ultrasound.

After birth , the baby’s head circumference is measured and compared with population standards by age and sex. Health care professionals usually wait for about 24 hours for the baby’s head to assume its normal shape after being compressed during delivery  through the birth canal.

If this condition  is suspected, the doctor may request more tests such as MRI or a CT scan to confirm his diagnosis.

How is microcephaly treated ?

This condition is lifelong.  There is no  cure for it. Severity may range from mild to severe and treatment options  depend on these.  Mild cases may not cause any  problems except having a small head. These babies will be monitored for their growth and development.

In severe cases, the baby   will need care and treatment  by managing their health problems. He  may need developmental services such as early intervention to  help improve their physical and intellectual abilities.

Early intervention includes speech, occupational and physical therapies . The child may also need medication for seizures and other symptoms.
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