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Variation in fontanelle size with gestational age
1Department of Paediatrics and Institute of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. andrew@ibadan.skannet.com
Early Human Development
|May 13, 1999
Summary
Neonatal anterior fontanelle size correlates slightly with gestational age. However, this anterior fontanelle size to head circumference ratio remains constant throughout the third trimester.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Pediatric anatomy
Background:
- Limited literature exists on fontanelle size variation with gestational age.
- Understanding this relationship is crucial for neonatal assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between anterior and posterior fontanelle size and gestational age in neonates.
- To determine if the anterior fontanelle size to occipitofrontal circumference ratio changes with gestational age.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted on 250 neonates with gestational ages ranging from 29 to 41 weeks.
- Measurements of anterior and posterior fontanelle size and occipitofrontal circumference were taken.
- Statistical analysis was performed to assess correlations and ratios.
Main Results:
- A low positive correlation (r = 0.15) was observed between anterior fontanelle size and gestational age, which decreased to 0.12 when controlling for occipitofrontal circumference.
- Mean anterior fontanelle size increased with gestational age, but the anterior fontanelle size: occipitofrontal circumference ratio remained constant.
- No significant correlation was found between posterior fontanelle size and gestational age; posterior fontanelle closure prevalence did not differ between term and preterm neonates.
Conclusions:
- Anterior fontanelle size shows a weak positive correlation with gestational age but maintains a consistent ratio with head circumference during the third trimester.
- Posterior fontanelle size does not exhibit a linear relationship with gestational age.