The measurement is compared with a scale for normal growth and size.
During the physical examination, the physician obtains a complete prenatal and birth history of the child. These include malformations of the head, seizures, swallowing problems, hearing and sight abnormalities.
In many cases, microcephaly may not be evident by ultrasound until the third trimester, and, therefore, may not be seen on ultrasounds performed earlier in pregnancy. Babies born with microcephaly may develop convulsions and suffer physical and learning disabilities as they grow older.
Every child with microcephaly is different, so the type of support will be guided by his or her symptoms and severity of disease. Talking to other parents can also be a great way to get support.
Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. The most likely explanation of available evidence is that Zika virus infection during pregnancy is a cause of congenital brain abnormalities including microcephaly.