Is microcephaly genetic or environmental?

Is microcephaly genetic or environmental?

Microcephaly can be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Children with microcephaly often have developmental issues.

What is the main cause of microcephaly?

KEY POINTS. Microcephaly may be caused by problems with brain development or being exposed to alcohol and certain drugs, chemicals and infections in the womb. Zika virus infection during pregnancy causes microcephaly.

What toxins can cause microcephaly?

Causes of microcephaly exposure to toxic chemicals: maternal exposure to heavy metals like arsenic and mercury, alcohol, radiation, and smoking; pre- and perinatal injuries to the developing brain (hypoxia-ischemia, trauma); genetic abnormalities such as Down syndrome; and. severe malnutrition during fetal life.

What environmental factors can affect the development of the fetus resulting in a microcephaly a small head?

Environmental factors can also increase the risk of microcephaly. If, while in the womb, the mother exposes a fetus is exposed to illicit drugs, alcohol, or toxins, the risk of the infant developing a brain abnormality is higher.

Can a child with microcephaly be normal?

Some children with microcephaly are both with normal intelligence and have normal developmental milestones, but their heads will always be smaller than normal children for their age and sex. Even in such cases, a regular follow-up with the doctor is advised.

Do babies with microcephaly grow normally?

Children with a mild case may have a small head but no other problems. Your child’s head will grow as they get older. But it will remain smaller than what’s considered normal. Some children have normal intelligence.

Can microcephaly be prevented?

While you’re pregnant, you can take steps to try to prevent acquired microcephaly: Eat a healthy diet and take prenatal vitamins. Don’t drink alcohol or do drugs. Stay away from chemicals.

Is microcephaly caused by pesticides?

These inconsistencies and discrepancies provide ample reason for considering other causes and cofactors. A group of physicians in Argentina and Brazil have suggested that widespread use of the pesticide pyriproxifen13 to reduce mosquito populations because of a dengue epidemic in 2014 may be the cause of microcephaly.

Can babies with small heads be normal?

Microcephaly is a condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than normal. It is most often present at birth (congenital). Most children with microcephaly also have a small brain and an intellectual disability. Some children with small heads have normal intelligence.

Does macrocephaly affect intelligence?

Macrocephaly is defined as a head circumference greater than the 97th percentile, that is more than 1.88 Standard Deviations above the normative mean….2. Methods.

Can microcephaly go away?

Microcephaly is a lifelong condition. There is no known cure or standard treatment for microcephaly. Because microcephaly can range from mild to severe, treatment options can range as well. Babies with mild microcephaly often don’t experience any other problems besides small head size.