Craniosynostosis
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What is Craniosynostosis?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?OrganizationsWhat is Craniosynostosis?
Craniosynostosis is a birth defect of the brain characterized by the premature closure of one or more of the fibrous joints
between the bones of the skull (called the cranial sutures) before brain growth is complete. Closure of a single suture is most common. The abnormally shaped skull that results is
due to the brain not being able to grow in its natural shape because of the closure. Instead it compensates with growth in
areas of the skull where the cranial sutures have not yet closed. The condition can be gene-linked, or caused by metabolic
diseases, such as rickets or an overactive thyroid. Some cases are associated with other disorders such as microcephaly (abnormally small head) and hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain). The first sign of craniosynostosis is an abnormally shaped
skull. Other features can include signs of increased intracranial pressure, developmental delays, or mental retardation, which
are caused by constriction of the growing brain. Seizures and blindness may also occur.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment for craniosynostosis generally consists of surgery to relieve pressure on the brain and the cranial nerves. For
some children with less severe problems, cranial molds can reshape the skull to accommodate brain growth and improve the appearance
of the head.
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis for craniosynostosis varies depending on whether single or multiple cranial sutures are involved or other abnormalities
are present. The prognosis is better for those with single suture involvement and no associated abnormalities.
What research is being done?
The NINDS conducts and supports a wide range of studies that explore the complex mechanisms of early neurological development.
The knowledge gained from these fundamental studies provides the foundation for understanding how this process can go awry
and offers hope for new ways to treat and prevent brain birth defects, including craniosynostosis.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Organizations
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by
or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice
on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined
that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
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Last updated February 12, 2007
