Congenital microcephaly detected by prenatal ultrasound: genetic aspects and clinical significance

Abstract

In 25 out of 30 infants microcephaly proved to be part of a complex problem, emphasizing the need of a meticulous search for structural anomalies and fetal karyotyping when biometric data are not according to gestational age. The etiologic heterogeneity and variability of microcephaly in genetic syndromes are among the more difficult issues in prenatal ultrasound in pregnancies either with an incidental finding of this anomaly, or in cases with a recurrence risk. The complex situations described in this study demonstrate the importance of follow up, post-mortem investigation and careful genetic counseling.