Get your 2020 M-CM Network Wall Calendar
Our 2020 is now available for purchase from print-on-demand service Lulu.com. It is a beloved community project featuring photos from nearly 100 patient families. Get yours now »
Our Research Agenda
We are fundraising for three groundbreaking projects. Learn more »
What is M-CM?
M-CM stands for macrocephaly-capillary malformation. It is a rare genetic syndrome that causes irregular growth in parts of the body and the brain. Specific effects and severity vary from person to person, but common characteristics are brain overgrowth, hypotonia (low muscle tone), and developmental delays. Many patients also have vascular birthmarks and body asymmetry.
Genetic Cause
M-CM is caused by mutations in a gene called PIK3CA that increase the activity of the gene. In most cases, these mutations happen spontaneously after conception, so that the gene is changed in a percentage of the body's cells. There are currently no known cases of inheritance. M-CM is one of many conditions caused by changes in PIK3CA and is part of a group of conditions known as PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum or PROS.
Many Names
This condition was first defined in 1997 as M-CMTC for macrocephaly-cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita. In 2007, M-CM for macrocephaly-capillary malformation was proposed to more accurately describe the vascular involvement. A newer name, MCAP for megalencephaly-capillary malformation was proposed in a 2012 paper that is now widely used in genetics literature. These names, along with other variations, all refer to the same condition.
News
MCAP Added to SSA Compassionate Allowances List
The U.S. Social Security Administration has added megalencephaly-capillary malformation syndrome to a list of conditions for expedited processing of disability benefits claims. More information »
Announcing New Genetic Testing Guidance
Our resource about genetic testing for M-CM is now available. Our objective in developing this new resource is to help families get the most appropriate testing and to understand their results. Visit our Genetic Testing page »
Newly diagnosed?
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Patients can advance research by contributing tissue samples and enrolling in research studies and clinical trials. Learn about ways to fundraise for the M-CM Network, or let us know how you would like to help.
