Head Abnormalities
Dr Faten Zaidan
Normal Measurements First
Average of Head circumference at birth: 35 cm
Rate of growth:
- 1-3 months: 2cm/month - total 4 cm
- 4-6 months: 1cm/month - total 6 cm
- 6-12 months: 0.5cm/month - total 9-10 cm
10cm in first year generally
Anterior fontanelle closes between 9-18 months
Diameter is <3.5 cm
Posterior fontanelle closes between 2-4 months of age
Diameter is about fingertip in size
- Diff - down syndrome & congenital hypothyroidism
How to examine head circumference
How can head growth be affected?
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Early closure of sutures leading to asymmetrical head shape and stunted growth of brain.
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Congenital diseases or syndromes characterized by either small head diameter or large head diameter
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Obstruction in CSF flow causing enlargement of brain thus delayed closure of sutures
History
You will cover all parts of history focusing on:
- Maternal history (fever, use of antibiotics, regular antenatal follow-ups, result of antenatal US)
- Neonatal History (admission in NICU, past medical and surgical)
- Family History (any similar cases in family, family history of metabolic diseases or syndromes or developmental delay)