Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Fontanelle
Pronunciation: fon-tuh-NEL
Soft spots on a newborn's skull where the cranial bones have not yet fused.
Full Definition
Fontanelles are membranous areas on an infant's skull where the cranial bones have not yet joined, appearing as soft spots. The two main fontanelles are the anterior (diamond-shaped, located at the top front of the head) and posterior (triangular, at the back of the head). These spaces allow for brain growth and compression during delivery. The posterior fontanelle typically closes by 2-3 months, while the anterior closes by 12-18 months. Abnormally large, small, or tense fontanelles may indicate medical conditions requiring evaluation.
Usage
Usage note: American spelling 'fontanelle' preferred over British 'fontanel'.
In Context
- "The anterior fontanelle measured 3 cm and was soft and flat." — Newborn examination
- "A tense fontanelle may indicate increased intracranial pressure." — Pediatric assessment
Also known as
soft spot
Don't confuse with
suture
cranial suture