Every parent wants to be sure their baby is developing just right. So when your little one’s head looks a bit bigger than others’, it’s normal to feel a mix of curiosity and concern.
The truth is, many babies are born with larger head sizes: a condition known as macrocephaly, and most of the time, it’s completely harmless.
Sometimes, it’s just genetics at play; other times, it’s a sign of a healthy, growing, thriving brain.
In this post, we’ll guide you through what macrocephaly in infants is, what causes it, and how to know when it’s perfectly normal or needs a doctor’s opinion.
What is Macrocephaly?
Macrocephaly is a condition in which an infant’s head is significantly larger than expected for their age or sex. Doctors assess the macrocephaly head circumference through the head size charts.
If the head measures above the 97th percentile, it is usually categorised as macrocephaly, as per StatPearls.
However, if parents or close relatives have naturally larger heads, an infant enlarged head may simply be a normal familial trait.
It would be a relief for parents to know that the mere largeness of the head does not mean that something is wrong. But the doctor will do further tests to check the cause of the large head newborn.
What Causes Macrocephaly
The doctor may need to review the child’s family history and perform physical exams, scans, and other tests to narrow down the likely macrocephaly causes, which can be listed as follows:
- Genetics can naturally lead to larger heads.
- Hydrocephalus is an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain.
- Benign enlargement of subarachnoid spaces (BESS) can cause extra fluid in infants that is non-serious and resolves in childhood.
- Developmental or neurological conditions are rare, but specific syndromes or structural brain differences could be the reason.
- Medical causes, such as premature closure of skull sutures (craniosynostosis) or metabolic disorders, can also contribute to a large head.
Big Head Infant Symptoms to Look Out For
A big head infant without any other issues often grows normally and meets milestones on time. However, if macrocephaly is associated with an underlying condition, certain signs may become apparent. These include:
- Excessive irritability or vomiting
- Developmental delays, such as sitting or crawling
- Visible veins on the child’s head
- Seizures
- Autism
- Eyes appear to be gazing downward
- Bulging of the soft spot (fontanelle)
- Abnormal eye movements
- Poor feeding or fatigue
These are considered important macrocephaly symptoms. If your child is showing these signs, pay more attention, and it’s best to consult a child specialist.
Read More: How to Recognise Early Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children?
Macrocephaly Treatment Options
The infant large head may not always require any intervention. However, regular observation and check-ups are necessary to monitor their health.
In case an underlying health condition like hydrocephalus is diagnosed, the following treatment would be recommended:
- Shunt placement: This is a surgical procedure that drains excess fluid from the brain to another part of the body.
- Endoscopic surgery: It is a minimally invasive procedure and is helpful in improving fluid flow to prevent obstruction.
The treatment primarily focuses on managing the underlying cause, reducing pressure on the brain, and preventing developmental complications.
To Sum Up
A big head infant is a common concern for many parents, but mostly it is harmless and is due to genetics. However, in other cases, it can indicate a medical condition like hydrocephalus that leads to fluid buildup in the brain and needs prompt treatment. It is recommended to monitor the baby’s head circumference, watch for associated symptoms, and consult with the doctor periodically if you think your infant has large head. With proper monitoring and timely care, most children with large head size grow and thrive just like their peers.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Macrocephaly
Can macrocephaly be cured?
Macrocephaly is not a disorder that needs a cure, but its underlying causes can be treated through surgery.
Can macrocephaly be detected during pregnancy?
Yes, macrocephaly can occur during pregnancy with a routine prenatal exam in the second or third trimester.
Can macrocephaly cause autism?
No, macrocephaly does not cause autism, but it is a potential indicator of autism in many kids.
