Craniotabes
Craniotabes
Craniotabes (pronounced: kray-nee-oh-tay-beez) is a medical condition characterized by the softening or thinning of the skull bones in infants. It is often associated with rickets, syphilis, and premature birth.
Etymology
The term "Craniotabes" is derived from the Greek words "kranion" meaning skull and "tabes" meaning wasting away, referring to the thinning or softening of the skull bones.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of craniotabes is the presence of soft spots or depressions on the infant's skull. These spots are often described as feeling similar to parchment. Other symptoms may include a delay in the closure of the fontanelles, or soft spots on a baby's head that usually close by 18 months of age.
Causes
Craniotabes is often associated with conditions that affect bone health such as rickets, a condition caused by vitamin D deficiency that affects bone development in children. It can also be a sign of congenital syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection passed from mother to child during pregnancy. Premature birth is another risk factor for craniotabes, as the skulls of premature babies are often softer and thinner than those of full-term babies.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of craniotabes involves a physical examination of the infant's skull. The doctor may also order blood tests to check for underlying conditions such as rickets or syphilis.
Treatment
Treatment for craniotabes depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is due to rickets, treatment may involve vitamin D supplements. If syphilis is the cause, antibiotics may be prescribed. In some cases, no treatment is necessary as the skull bones may harden on their own as the child grows.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Craniotabes
- Wikipedia's article - Craniotabes
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