Conditions & syndromes · England
Microcephaly
Your browser or device provides the reading voice.
This guide is for people in England.
You can read it with someone you trust.
Microcephaly means a head is much smaller than expected.
A health professional checks this using measurements.
There can be different reasons for microcephaly.
A doctor can explain the checks they suggest.
Each person is different.
Some people need more help than others.
You may need support with communication or learning.
Ask what could help you.
Some people need help with movement or other health needs.
Support should fit the person.
Your interests and goals matter.
Review your support when your needs change.
What you can do next
Please explain my assessment and the support that could help me.
Read NHS information about microcephaly Web pageThis link opens another website.
It may use harder words.
Microcephaly
Understanding a smaller head size and getting individual support.
Children and adults · England · General information
Understand what the term describes
Microcephaly describes a head size much smaller than expected, assessed using clinical measurements. It may be present at birth or develop afterwards. It is not one single genetic syndrome. Some people have little associated difficulty; others have substantial developmental, learning or physical support needs.
Ask about assessment and causes
Possible causes include genetic differences and conditions affecting brain development. The team may consider scans and other investigations, depending on the situation. Ask what each test can show, what remains uncertain and whether a genetics appointment would help. The diagnosis should not be based on appearance alone.
Follow the person’s development
During childhood, ask who will monitor growth, movement, communication and learning. Hearing and vision concerns should be assessed. Some people also have seizures or balance difficulties. Not everyone has every associated difficulty. Changes or new symptoms should be discussed with the relevant clinician rather than assumed to be inevitable.
Choose support that helps everyday life
Support can address particular difficulties even when the underlying condition cannot be reversed. Ask about speech and language therapy, physiotherapy or other assessment according to need. Build plans around comfortable participation, communication and enjoyable experiences. Keep a shared record of what helps and what the person finds difficult.
Plan beyond the diagnosis
A head measurement cannot define someone’s personality, relationships or aspirations. Review practical support as circumstances change and plan transitions between children’s and adult services. The Brain Charity provides information and support for neurological conditions. Use the related guides to explore communication, epilepsy and movement support.
Words you could use
“Please explain my assessment and the support that could help me.”
Where the information comes from
Links checked 27 October 2026.
These links open other websites.
They may use harder words.
- West Midlands Children’s Network: microcephaly Web page
NHS information about assessment, causes and varying developmental outcomes.
- NHS Health Research Authority: microcephaly research summary Web page
Definition, different causes and individual variation.
- The Brain Charity: microcephaly Web page
Associated needs and support for people and families.