HomeAnswersNeurologyhydrocephalusWhy is my baby's head so big?

My baby's head size is big. Is it due to any abnormality?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At August 5, 2016
Reviewed AtJuly 31, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I was blessed with twin baby girls before three months. It was a premature C-section at 36th week. At birth, one of my baby head size was 1.08 ft. After some days, it was 1.20 ft. So, the doctor was surprised and sent for an ultrasound scan. I have attached the first report of the scan. It showed a small cyst in germinal matrix and it also said the subtle prominence of lateral ventricle. After 15 days of follow up scan, they said the cyst was dissolved. But, they did not mention about ventricles. One thing I observed is that the head size of my husband, his brother and his mom is big enough and they do not have any problem. My baby is very active. There are no symptoms of irritation and vomiting. Also, the fontanelle looks normal. When I went for a second month checkup the baby head size was 40 and so the doctor again asked for a scan. I have attached the second report too. It showed bilateral mild prominence of lateral ventricles measuring 12-13 mm. After this, my pediatrician asked us to consult a neurologist. I am scared now. Is there any problem or complication? What does that mean? Please explain. I am unable to nurse my babies for the past one week. Please help me. Baby1 head size (problem child): At birth - 33 cm , 1 month - 1.21 ft, 2 months - 1.31 ft and 2.5 months - 1.33 ft. Baby 2 head size : At birth - 1.08 ft, 1 month - 1.15 ft and 2 months - 1.25 ft.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I have gone through your query with diligence and would like you to know that I am here to help you. The head circumference of 1.33 ft at 8 weeks of age is definitely abnormal. In addition to that, the scan report (attachment removed to protect patient identity) clearly says that the ventricles are dilated. The child is having hydrocephalus. You have to consult a neurosurgeon immediately. Please do not delay since the child is active. If the pressure inside the brain increases, it will interfere with the further development of the brain.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. J. Mariano Anto Bruno Mascarenhas
Dr. J. Mariano Anto Bruno Mascarenhas

Neurosurgery

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Neurology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy