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Fontanelles - sunken - Treatment

Alternative Names

Sunken fontanelles; Soft spot - sunken

Call your health care provider if:

A sunken fontanelle CAN BE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY and a health care provider should check it right away.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The health care provider will perform a physical examination and ask questions about the child's symptoms and medical history, such as:

When did you first notice that the fontanelle looked sunken?
How severe is it? How would you describe it?
Which "soft spots" are affected?
What other symptoms are present?
Has the baby been ill, especially with vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating?
Is the skin turgor poor?
Is the baby thirsty?
Is the baby alert?
Are the baby's eyes dry?
Is the baby's mouth moist?

Tests may include:

Blood chemistries
CBC
Urinalysis
Tests to check the baby's nutritional status

You might be referred to a place that can provide intravenous (IV) fluids if the sunken fontanelle is caused by dehydration.

Skull of a newborn

Sunken fontanelles (superior view)

Reviewed last on: 3/14/2009
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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