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Metopic ridge

• Overview

Definition:

A metopic ridge is an abnormal shape of the skull. The ridge can be seen on the forehead.

Considerations:

A metopic ridge is similar to other ridged sutures . It is caused when the two halves of the frontal bones of the skull fuse together prematurely.

The metopic suture normally begins to close in the second year of life, and is usually completely closed during the third year -- although it does persist unclosed throughout life in 10% of the population.

There is no treatment or surgery required for a metopic ridge.

Common Causes:

Congenital craniosynostosis , particularly trigonocephaly, is a common cause for metopic ridge.

References:

Ridgway EB. Skull deformities. Pediatr Clin North Am . 2004; 51(2): 359-87.

Grainger RC, Allison D, Adam, Dixon AK. Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging . 4th ed. Orlando, Fl: Churchill Livingstone; 2001:2484.

• Review Date: 5/10/2006
• Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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