macrocephaly
Definition
Noun: - A medical condition characterized by an abnormally large head size. This condition is distinguished from hydrocephalus by the absence of increased pressure inside the skull and by symmetrical, proportional overgrowth of the head structures.
Usage
The term is used in medical and clinical contexts to describe a physical finding, often noted at birth or during early childhood development. It is a diagnostic term rather than a casual description.
Examples
- The pediatrician noted possible macrocephaly during the newborn's routine examination and ordered further tests.
- Macrocephaly can sometimes be a benign familial trait, meaning it runs in the family without associated health problems.
- In some syndromes, macrocephaly is one of several observable features.
Advanced Usage
- Macrocephaly is often quantified by measuring head circumference and comparing it to standardized growth charts for age and sex.
- The diagnostic workup for macrocephaly typically involves imaging studies, like an MRI, to rule out other causes such as tumors or fluid accumulation.
Variants and Related Words
- Macrocephalic (adjective): Describing someone or something with macrocephaly.
- The doctor documented the infant's macrocephalic appearance.
Synonyms
- Megacephaly
- Large head (a non-technical description)
Antonyms
- Microcephaly (an abnormally small head)
Noun
-
an abnormally large head; differs from hydrocephalus because there is no increased intracranial pressure and the overgrowth is symmetrical
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