DEPRESSION/MENTAL HEALTH EXPERT FORUM
Small fetal head. Should I be concerned about mental disability?

Small fetal head. Should I be concerned about mental disability?

I am having ultrasounds done every three weeks in a high-risk perinatal assesment facility. During my 25 week ultrasound it was noted that the female fetal head was lagging behind in growth (about the 8th percentile) while the rest of her body was growing normally. Now at 28 weeks her head is still behind in growth (one measurment three weeks behind and the other four) while her body is measuring normal for 28 weeks! There are no other markers of a problem during ultrasound or found with the quad screen. Her brain structure appears normal and I was told not to worry but at the same time it was suggested that I have a fetal MRI and\or amnio-centisis. I am very concerned about the outcome of this finding and would like to know what the odds are that this will eventually become a diagnosis of microsephaly?

My doctors agree that she does'nt meet the criteria for microsephaly at this point. Furthermore, she has not been in the head down position when these measurments were being considered. As for a small head being familial I would'nt necessarily consider the father of my babys head small but rather elongated and maybe somewhat pointed while he is 6' 2" and very thin. As for her older sibling, almost 3 years now, I must addmit that her head is noteably small & elongated as well but proportionate with her small but long body. People often comment on how tall and thin she is. At her last pediatric appointment I recall she was in the 10th% for weight and 70% for height. Head was within normal range but I have not been informed of this measurment lately. I don't know if this has any real relevance in the matter at hand but here are some picture links to make judgement of head size in my unborn childs family(father & sister):


http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=387082899&albumID=1412605&imageID=19679163

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=387082899&albumID=1412605&imageID=19679161
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I think you posted this question in the wrong forum...this is mental and emotional health, I have no expertise in the issues you are questioning.
2 Comments
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I'm desperately sorry but I don't know the answers to your questions.
The doctor here is infinitely more qualified to answer your questions but I have a feeling even he will direct you to other experts in other areas (unless of course he feels confident answering the question, which he may do).

From a lay person's perspective and one not emotionally involved in the process I expect things will be OK.
Please try not to stress too much as this too also negatively impacts on a fetus.

Best wishes and I hope everything is well and goes well.
J
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