Thursday, February, 09, 2012

Metopic ridge

Table of Contents

Definition

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


Considerations

A metopic ridge occurs when the two halves of the frontal bones of the skull join together too soon.

The metopic suture normally begins to close in the second year of life. It is usually completely closed during the third year. However, it remains unclosed throughout life in 10% of the population.


Common Causes

Congenital craniosynostosis (particularly trigonocephaly) is a common cause of metopic ridge.



Review Date: 10/31/2009
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)