Fontanelle Closing Early

Question: My baby is 15 weeks and her anterior fontanelle is closing really fast. It is only about 0.5 cm open now. Is this a problem?

DR.PAUL: As long as the head is growing normally in other words following the growth chart for head circumference, and all else is fine, this can be normal. In cases where the fontanel closes completely prematurely(before 5-7 months) your doctor may ask for an X ray of the head to make sure the skull bones are closing normally which is usually the case. Again, as long as the head growth is normal that is the key. I have seen this quite a few times where the fontanelle closes prematurely without any consequence.

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Pediatrician DR.PAUL Roumeliotis is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. The information provided above is designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace the advice and care of your child’s physician, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect that your child has a medical condition always consult a physician.

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Pediatrician DR.PAUL Roumeliotis is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. The information provided above is designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace the advice and care of your child’s physician, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect that your child has a medical condition always consult a physician.