How can you tell the difference between plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis?

How can you tell the difference between plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis?

In craniosynostosis, the anterior fontanel (af) may be open or closed. all options to be offered. In positional plagiocephaly, the skull sutures are not fused. This head shape deformation, typically of the back of the head, is caused by repeated pressure to the same area.

Can plagiocephaly cause craniosynostosis?

Similar to craniosynostosis, plagiocephaly can cause flat spots and bulging areas on the head and forehead, but it is not craniosynostosis because no fusion of the cranial sutures has happened. It is important to get your child properly diagnosed to avoid getting these two conditions confused.

What are the different types of craniosynostosis?

The types of craniosynostosis are based on how many bones are fused together:

• Single-Suture Synostosis (Primary) Sagittal synostosis (scaphocephaly) Unilateral coronal synostosis (anterior plagiocephaly)
• Double-Suture Synostosis. Bicoronal (brachycephaly)
• Complex Multisuture Synostosis. Bicoronal, sagittal, metopic.

How can I tell if my baby has craniosynostosis?

Doctors can identify craniosynostosis during a physical exam. A doctor will feel the baby’s head for hard edges along the sutures and unusual soft spots. The doctor also will look for any problems with the shape of the baby’s face.

What causes deformational plagiocephaly?

What causes deformational plagiocephaly? When a baby’s head stays in one position for long periods of time, the skull flattens. Sometimes a baby is born with this flattening because of a tight space in the uterus. This risk is often increased if there are twins or multiples.

What is the most common type of craniosynostosis?

Sagittal synostosis– The sagittal suture runs along the top of the head, from the baby’s soft spot near the front of the head to the back of the head. When this suture closes too early, the baby’s head will grow long and narrow (scaphocephaly). It is the most common type of craniosynostosis.

When should I be concerned about my baby’s head shape?

Let your doctor know immediately if you notice anything unusual or different about your baby’s head shape, like: your baby’s head shape is still misshapen 2 weeks or more after birth. a bulging or swollen spot on your baby’s head. a sunken soft spot on your baby’s head.

What is sagittal synostosis?

Sagittal synostosis is the most common form of synostosis accounting for about 50% of all cases with a prevalence of 1 in 2000 live births. Premature fusion of the sagittal suture restricts the transverse growth of the skull. This results in an increased anteroposterior skull length to accommodate the growing brain.

Can a pediatrician diagnose craniosynostosis?

In some cases, your baby’s pediatrician may suspect craniosynostosis at a routine well-baby visit. In other cases, you may make an appointment because you have concerns about your baby’s head growth. Your health care provider can refer you to a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

What race is dolichocephalic?

top; such skulls are called dolichocephalic and are typical of Australian aborigines and native southern Africans.