1. #Head_Circumference_Measurement_and_Growth_Pattern

2. #MCQs_related_to_Head_Circumferences

To measure head circumference accurately, all hair accessories should be removed, and braids should be undone. A non-stretchable measuring tape should be placed around the widest part of the head, covering the occipital protuberance at the back and the supraorbital ridges on the forehead1.2

Head circumference is a crucial indicator of brain growth, particularly in early infancy. At birth, the average head circumference is 34 cm. The most rapid growth occurs in the first six months, with an increase of 2 cm per month for the first three months and 1 cm per month from 3 to 6 months. Growth slows thereafter, increasing by 0.5 cm per month until the child turns one year old. By this time, the head circumference typically reaches 46–47 cm. Further increments occur gradually, reaching 48 cm by 2 years and 52 cm by 12 years1.2

Regular monitoring of head circumference is essential for early detection of developmental or neurological concerns in children. Pediatricians should follow standardized growth charts to assess normal development and identify any deviations at an early stage.

Q1. What is the correct method to measure head circumference in infants?

a) Using a stretchable measuring tape around the widest part of the head

b) Measuring from ear to ear across the forehead

c) Using a non-stretchable tape around the occipital protuberance and supraorbital ridges

d) Measuring only the forehead circumference

Answer: c) Using a non-stretchable tape around the occipital protuberance and supraorbital ridges

Q2. What is the average head circumference of a newborn at birth?

a) 30 cm

b) 34 cm

c) 36 cm

d) 40 cm

Answer: b) 34 cm

Q3. What is the average monthly increase in head circumference during the first 3 months of life?

a) 1 cm per month

b) 2 cm per month

c) 0.5 cm per month

d) 3 cm per month

Answer: b) 2 cm per month

Q4. By what age does the head circumference typically reach 46–47 cm?

a) 6 months

b) 1 year

c) 2 years

d) 5 years

Answer: b) 1 year

Q5. At what age does the head circumference usually reach approximately 52 cm?

a) 5 years

b) 10 years

c) 12 years

d) 15 years

Answer: c) 12 years

Q6. Which of the following statements about head circumference growth after 6 months of age is true?

a) Growth stops entirely after 6 months

b) Growth continues at 2 cm per month

c) Growth slows to about 1 cm per month from 3 to 6 months and 0.5 cm per month thereafter

d) Growth remains the same throughout infancy

Answer: c) Growth slows to about 1 cm per month from 3 to 6 months and 0.5 cm per month thereafter

Q7. Why is regular monitoring of head circumference important in infants?

a) To assess hair growth

b) To detect early developmental or neurological concerns

c) To compare with parental head size

d) To determine overall body weight

Answer: b) To detect early developmental or neurological concerns

Q8. Which anatomical landmarks are used to measure head circumference?

a) Mastoid process and nasal bridge

b) Temporal bone and chin

c) Occipital protuberance and supraorbital ridges

d) Zygomatic arch and mandible

Answer: c) Occipital protuberance and supraorbital ridges

Q9. How much does the head circumference typically measure at 6 months of age?

a) 38 cm

b)40 cm

c) 43 cm

d) 45 cm

Answer: c) 43 cm

References

1. Ghai OP. Essential Paediatrics. 10th ed. New Delhi: CBS Publishers; 2022.

2. Hockenberry MJ, Wilson D. Wong’s Essentials of Paediatric Nursing. 11th ed. St. Louis: Elsevier; 2021.

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