Can a premature baby's small head circumference catch up over time?
May 03, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
Whether a preterm baby's small head circumference can catch up depends on whether there is an underlying head malformation. If a preterm baby has a small head circumference but it is close to the normal range, and there are no other signs of developmental delay, the head circumference usually catches up over time with improved nutrition and supplementation of trace elements. However, if microcephaly is clearly present, it is typically due to chromosomal abnormalities, and in such cases, the head circumference is unlikely to increase significantly.
If a premature baby has a small head circumference, whether it can catch up depends on whether there is any head abnormality. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Yes
Premature babies are newborns born between 28 and 37 weeks of gestation. If a premature baby has a slightly small head circumference that is close to the normal range and no other developmental delays are found upon examination, the head circumference usually can increase over time with improved nutrition and supplementation of trace elements.
2. No
If a premature baby has a small head circumference due to confirmed microcephaly, this condition is typically caused by chromosomal abnormalities and represents congenital poor development of the head circumference, which generally cannot improve significantly.
Parents are advised to provide proper daily care for premature babies, prevent colds, and reduce the risk of illness.
