Overview
Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome is a rare genetic condition that was previously listed as a distinct disorder in medical databases but has since been reclassified (marked as 'obsolete') as understanding of the condition evolved. This means the diagnosis may now fall under a broader or more specific category based on the underlying genetic cause. The condition was characterized by three main features: microcephaly (a smaller-than-expected head size, which reflects reduced brain growth), seizures that typically begin in infancy or early childhood, and developmental delay affecting motor skills, speech, and cognitive abilities. Children with this condition often showed delays in reaching milestones such as sitting, walking, and talking. Seizures could vary in type and severity, sometimes being difficult to control with standard medications. The small head size was usually apparent at birth or became noticeable during the first year of life as the brain did not grow at the expected rate. Because this entry is now obsolete, patients who were previously given this diagnosis may benefit from updated genetic testing to identify the specific gene responsible for their symptoms. Modern genetic testing techniques, such as whole exome or whole genome sequencing, can often pinpoint the exact cause, which may lead to a more precise diagnosis and potentially better-targeted treatment options. Treatment has generally been supportive, focusing on seizure management with anti-seizure medications, physical and occupational therapy, speech therapy, and educational support.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Smaller than normal head size (microcephaly)Seizures or convulsionsDelayed development of motor skills like sitting and walkingDelayed speech and language developmentIntellectual disabilityDifficulty with learningPoor muscle tone or stiffnessFeeding difficulties in infancyBehavioral challengesPoor coordination or balance
Variable
Can be inherited in different ways depending on the underlying gene
Infantile
Begins in infancy, roughly 1 month to 2 years old
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for OBSOLETE: Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome.
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for OBSOLETE: Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to OBSOLETE: Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome.
Community
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
Rare disease caregiving can be isolating. Connect with counseling and peer support.
Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.Has my child had updated genetic testing, and could whole exome or genome sequencing provide a more specific diagnosis?,What type of seizures does my child have, and what is the best medication to control them?,What therapies (physical, occupational, speech) should we start, and how often?,Are there any clinical trials or new treatments that might be relevant to my child's specific genetic diagnosis?,What should I do if my child has a prolonged seizure — do we need a rescue medication at home?,What is the expected developmental trajectory, and how can we best support my child's learning?,Are there any specialists or support groups you recommend for our family?
Common questions about OBSOLETE: Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome
What is OBSOLETE: Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome?
Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome is a rare genetic condition that was previously listed as a distinct disorder in medical databases but has since been reclassified (marked as 'obsolete') as understanding of the condition evolved. This means the diagnosis may now fall under a broader or more specific category based on the underlying genetic cause. The condition was characterized by three main features: microcephaly (a smaller-than-expected head size, which reflects reduced brain growth), seizures that typically begin in infancy or early childhood, and developmental delay affec
At what age does OBSOLETE: Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome typically begin?
Typical onset of OBSOLETE: Microcephaly-seizures-developmental delay syndrome is infantile. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.