Macrocephaly
Macrocephaly
Macrocephaly (pronounced: ma-kroh-SEF-uh-lee) is a medical condition characterized by an abnormally large head size. The term is derived from the Greek words "makros" meaning large, and "kephale" meaning head.
Definition
Macrocephaly is a condition where the circumference of the head is more than two standard deviations above average for the person's age, sex, and period of gestation. It is often a symptom of other conditions, but can also occur as a standalone condition.
Causes
Macrocephaly can be caused by a variety of conditions, including genetic disorders, metabolic disorders, and neurological disorders. Some of the most common causes include:
- Hydrocephalus: This is a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
- Megalencephaly: This is a condition where the brain is abnormally large.
- Canavan disease: This is a rare inherited disorder that causes progressive damage to nerve cells in the brain.
Symptoms
The most obvious symptom of macrocephaly is a larger than normal head size. Other symptoms can vary widely depending on the underlying cause and may include developmental delay, intellectual disability, and physical abnormalities.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of macrocephaly involves a physical examination and measurement of the head circumference. Further diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scan may be required to determine the underlying cause.
Treatment
Treatment for macrocephaly depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In other cases, treatment may involve medication, surgery, or other interventions.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Macrocephaly
- Wikipedia's article - Macrocephaly
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