Introduction

Craniosynostosis is a medical condition that affects the shape of a baby’s skull. It occurs when one or more of the fibrous joints (called sutures) in an infant’s skull close too early—before the brain has finished growing. This early fusion can lead to problems with skull shape, head growth, and, in some cases, brain development.

Causes and Risk Factors

Craniosynostosis can occur sporadically (without a known cause) or as part of a genetic syndrome. While the exact cause is often unclear, certain risk factors include:

• -Family history of the condition

• -Genetic mutations

• -Certain metabolic or bone disorders

It can present either as isolated (non-syndromic) or be linked with other abnormalities as part of a syndromic craniosynostosis (e.g., Crouzon, Apert, or Pfeiffer syndromes).

Types of Craniosynostosis

The condition is classified based on the specific suture(s) affected:

• -Sagittal synostosis – causes a long, narrow head shape

• -Coronal synostosis – results in an asymmetrical or flattened forehead

• -Metopic synostosis – creates a triangular-shaped forehead

• -Lambdoid synostosis – rare and affects the back of the head

Some children may have multiple sutures fused, leading to more complex deformities.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms vary depending on the sutures involved but commonly include:

• -An unusual head shape

• -Uneven or asymmetrical facial features

• -Slow or no growth in the head size

• -Developmental delays (in some cases)

• -Increased intracranial pressure (in severe cases)

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests such as a CT scan, and sometimes genetic testing.

Treatment Options

The main treatment for craniosynostosis is surgery, ideally performed in infancy to allow the brain room to grow and restore a normal skull shape. Surgery can involve:

• -Cranial vault remodeling (reshaping the skull)

• -Endoscopic-assisted surgery (less invasive, suited for younger infants)

In some cases, a helmet therapy may be used post-surgery to guide skull growth.

Prognosis and Long-Term Outlook

With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, most children with craniosynostosis go on to lead healthy, normal lives. However, untreated or severe cases—especially those involving increased pressure on the brain—can lead to complications such as developmental delays or vision problems.