Congenital microcephaly: A diagnostic challenge during Zika epidemics

The multiple, wide and diverse etiologies of congenital microcephaly are complex and multifactorial. Recent advances in genetic testing have improved understanding, of novel genetic causes of congenital microcephaly. The recent Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemics in Latin America has highlighted the need for a better understanding on the underlying pathological mechanisms of microcephaly including both infectious and non-infectious causes. The diagnostic approach to microcephaly needs to include potential infectious and genetic etiologies, as well as environmental in-utero exposures such as alcohol, toxins, and medications.

Source: Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease - February 19, 2018 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Jorge L. Alvarado-Socarras, Álvaro J. Idrovo, Gustavo A. Contreras-García, Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales, Tobey A. Audcent, Adriana C. Mogollon-Mendoza, Alberto Paniz-Mondolfi Source Type: research