Increased head circumference
Definition
Increased head circumference is when the measured distance around the widest part of the skull is larger than expected for the child's age and background.
Alternative Names
MacrocephalyConsiderations
A newborn's head is usually about 2 centimeters larger than the chest size. Between 6 months and 2 years, both measurements are about equal. After 2 years, the chest size becomes larger than the head.
A series of measurements over time that show an increased rate of head growth often can provide more valuable information than a single measurement that is larger than expected.
Increased pressure in the head (increased intracranial pressure) often accompanies increased head circumference. Symptoms associated with this condition include:
- Eyes moving downward
- Irritability
- Vomiting
See also: Bulging fontanelles
Causes
- Benign familial macrocephaly (family tendency toward large head size)
- Canavan disease
- Hurler syndrome
- Hydrocephalus (congenital, post-traumatic, or obstructive)
- Intracranial bleeding
- Morquio syndrome
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.