Also called macrocephalia and megalocephaly, macrocephaly is diagnosed when the circumference of the head is more than two standard deviations above average for the child's age, sex, race, and period of gestation. The fontanelle (soft spot) of the newborn is wide, but facial features are usually normal.

How do you test for macrocephaly?

A pediatrician can diagnose macrocephaly. They will track an infant's head measurements over time. Your doctor will also perform neurological tests. These can include a CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI to get a better look at the head and brain.

At what age is macrocephaly diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Macrocephaly

After birth, doctors measure a baby's head circumference. From birth to about age 1 or 2 years, children grow rapidly. After this rapid infant... read more (the measurement of the head around its largest area) during routine physical examinations.