Cephalic disorders are conditions affecting the brain and central nervous system of a developing fetus. The severity of the disorder can range from mild to profound. Many of the most severe forms of cephalic disorder are fatal.

Types of cephalic disorders include anencephaly, colpocephaly, holoprosencephaly, hydranencephaly, lissencephaly, megalencephaly, microcephaly, porencephaly and schizencephaly.

In most cases, cephalic disorders are caused by disturbances that occur early in fetal neurological development. A combination of factors can cause cephalic disorders, including hereditary or genetic conditions, and exposures to certain environmental factors, such as medications and environmental toxins (e.g., maternal infections and exposure to radiation).

Signs and symptoms of cephalic disorders vary depending on the nature and severity of the disorders. Mild cases of cephalic disorder produce few if any symptoms. More significant cases of cephalic disorder may result in severe physical abnormalities and profound cognitive impairment. Many children with significant cephalic disorders do not live long, are miscarried or arrive stillborn.

The time at which a specific cephalic disorder can be diagnosed depends on the condition. Some can be diagnosed before a child is born, such as through an ultrasound test. In some cases, parents may choose genetic counseling if they have a family history of certain genetic problems. Others cannot be confirmed until after birth. In some cases, a cephalic disorder may not be identified until symptoms appear a few years after the child is born.

Some cephalic disorders cannot be treated. Prognosis for patients with these disorders is usually poor. In other cases, complications associated with cephalic disorders may be treated with medications or other techniques. Physical therapy and special education can also help some patients with cephalic disorders.