Question

Craniosynostosis is a condition in which one or more of the fontanelles is replaced by bone prematurely. Discuss the ramifications of this early closure.

Answer 1

Answer.

• When one or more fontanelles is closed prematurely, bone growth along the lateral aspects of the head can affect the small bones of the inner ear and result in deafness.
• In infants with this condition, changes in the shape of the head and face may be noticeable and are generally the first and only symptom.
• The appearance of the child's face may not be the same when compared to the other side.
• Another sign is small or absent fontanelle. Less commonly, synostosis can cause increased pressure within the skull. This is especially true when multiple cranial sutures are fused prematurely.