craniosynostosis
Pronunciation: KRAY-nee-oh-sin-oh-STOH-sis
Premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures resulting in abnormal skull shape and potential increased intracranial pressure.
Full Definition
A condition involving the premature fusion of one or more fibrous joints (sutures) between the bones of the skull, occurring before brain growth is complete. This premature closure restricts normal skull and brain growth perpendicular to the fused suture, leading to compensatory growth in other directions and characteristic skull deformities. The condition can be isolated (non-syndromic) or part of a genetic syndrome such as Crouzon or Apert syndrome. CT imaging with 3D reconstruction is the gold standard for diagnosis and surgical planning, showing the fused suture and associated cranial deformity. Early intervention is often necessary to prevent increased intracranial pressure and allow normal brain development.
Usage
Usage note: Must be distinguished from positional plagiocephaly, which involves skull deformity without suture fusion.
In Context
- "3D CT reconstruction clearly demonstrated premature fusion of the sagittal suture consistent with scaphocephaly secondary to craniosynostosis." — Pediatric neurosurgical imaging report
- "The diagnosis of craniosynostosis was confirmed, distinguishing it from positional plagiocephaly which does not involve suture fusion." — Craniofacial imaging consultation