Key Points about Craniosynostosis
- Approximately one infant in every 1,000 births will have early closure of a cranial suture.
- Craniosynostosis does not improve with time and it can worsen with growth.
- Some of the sutures that are affected are: metopic, coronal, sagittal and lambdoid. If more than one cranial suture is fused or closed, pressure inside the brain can become higher than normal.
Craniosynostosis causes
In most cases, the reason for craniosynostosis is not clear and is sporadic. However, some cases are related to:
- Environmental factors, including certain medications the mother may have been taking during pregnancy.
- Genetic reasons. If craniosynostosis is associated with other findings in the child, it may be part of a syndrome.
Craniosynostosis symptoms
Other than closing of the skull, symptoms of craniosynostosis may include:
- No growth or slow growth of child’s head
- No “soft spot” on the child’s head
- Ridge in the area of the closed suture and a change in the shape of the skull
Craniosynostosis diagnosis
Diagnosis of craniosynostosis can be completed by a simple examination. And in more complicated cases, an XRAYS and/or CT scan of the child’s head.
Craniosynostosis treatment
Craniosynostosis is treated by performing surgery that parts the sutures that are merged together. Depending on the sutures affected and the child’s age, your doctor will work with you to determine the best plan for your child.