People commonly frown at something if they find it unusual. Parents with children suffering from birth defects are not exceptions. An abnormal condition present at birth is Craniocynostosis.It is marked with an unusually shaped head because sutures on the skull closed earlier than the normal.On the 36th month, the brain has increased 3 times its original size. The sutures are there so the skull can expand as a way of coping up with the growing brain. Closure of the skull at an earlier time will lead to craniocynostosis. There is no known definite cause but genetics and exposure to teratogenic substances like medications may put the baby at risk. Studies have shown that it is considered as a Zoloft birth defect, an antidepressant belonging to the SSRI classification.


How Can I Tell if My Child Has Craniocynostosis?

An evident sign is an irregularly shaped head. Upon palpation of the head, you can feel that there is the absence of a fontanel or the “soft spot” commonly found on the newborn’s skull; or there might be an early disappearance of such. You might notice that there is slow or no increase of your baby’s head as time progressed and also, a raised ridge can be found on the affected sutures. The signs will not immediately show at birth but will be seen later in life. It is advised to see a doctor if you feel that your baby’s head is not growing as it should be and/or it has an unusual shape.


Is There a Treatment for This Condition?

Minor cases can be left untreated since it will not have a major impact on your baby’s health and will later be covered with hair once developed. However, surgery is needed for severe cases. The procedure is done when the child is still an infant but timing and type will depend on the severity and if there is an underlying condition. The objective is to relieve the brain from increased intercranial pressure and provide adequate space for it to develop properly. The health care team is composed of a neurosurgeon (brain surgeries) and craniofacial surgeon (face and head surgeries). This situation is identified as emotionally draining and can put the parents in a very anxious state so it is helpful that they can share what their experience to parents under similar conditions. It is highly encouraged to ask your doctor if they know any support group in the community.