Risk Factors for Microcephaly in Children

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate developmental milestones and risk factors for children with microcephaly. Methods: Personal health records of children followed in the Well Child Outpatient Clinic between 2002 and 2020 were evaluated. Children(n=49) with microcephaly constituted the study group. The control group(n=98) encompassed children with head circumference within the normal range for age. Microcephaly was defined as head circumference ≤ -2 SDS at birth or postnatal follow-ups. Results: In this retrospective case-control study, parental education levels were consistently low among children with microcephaly. Resolution of microcephaly was identified in 26(53.1%) children with microcephaly. Median age for resolution was two months. Children in the control group achieved unsupported sitting at a younger age than those in the case group. Developmental milestones were not significantly different according to the severity of microcephaly, but this difference was statistically significant between children with and without microcephaly. Conclusion: Low parental education, additional health problems, and consanguinity can be alarming to give extra support for the development of children with microcephaly. Not to miss children with microcephaly, head circumference ≤2SDS should be used for the definition of microcephaly. Further studies are needed to explain the roles of socioeconomic factors on microcephaly.