Craniosynostosis - Symptoms and Causes

Craniosynostosis is a birth defect and in this condition, the sutures on the head of the baby close earlier than normal. Normally, the sutures close when the child is two or three years of age. If the sutures close early, the shape of the baby’s head would be abnormal.

The causes of Craniosynostosis are still not known clearly. From the evidence that is available, the doctors are able to make out some generalized causes for this condition. It is believed by many experts that this condition is caused due to the alterations in genes that are inherited by the baby from its parents. It is usually seen that there is interference of the mutated genes with the normal development of the skull. The type of genes that are involved and the way in which they are passed on, is still not known. However, it is known that if either of the parents have this condition, there is a risk of the baby developing it.

Various factors are responsible for contributing to the development of Craniosynostosis:

• An important role is played by genetics, when one talks about the risks of this condition. 11 percent of all cases are seen in such families where there has been a history of the same. Genetic screening will help in determining whether the child is at risk of developing Craniosynostosis or not.

• There are some cases where the issue is triggered, if the thyroid hormone of the mother is elevated.

• Some doctors also state that the way in which the child is lying inside the fetus may also contribute to the development of this condition. Mainly, the babies lying in the breech position are affected.

• This problem may be caused by various environmental factors as well. Smoking is believed to contribute to this condition along with those medicines taken during pregnancy that contain amine.

What Are the Symptoms of Craniosynostosis?

The general signs of this condition include:

• A skull that is misshapen. The shape would depend on the cranial sutures that are affected.

• Disappearance of the soft spot or an abnormal feeling on the skull of the baby

• No growth or slow growth of the baby’s head

• Development of hard and raised ridge along the sutures that are affected

• Intracranial pressure within the skull