MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Head circumference

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Head circumference

Head circumference is a measurement of the circumference of the child's head at its largest area (above the eyebrows and ears and around the back of the head). During routine check-ups, the distance is measured and compared to previous measurements. Normal ranges are based on sex and age.

Update Date: 11/18/2005

Updated by: John Goldenring, MD, MPH, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healtchare Network.

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