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Midface Hypoplasia and Cranial Base Morphology in Syndromic Craniosynostosis: A Comparative Analysis Study Using a Predictive Regression Model
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A case of unilateral coronal synostosis in a child with craniofacial microsomia

Michael J Terry1, Jeffrey A Ascherman

  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Medical Center, 161 Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10032, USA

The Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal : Official Publication of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association
|November 16, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Craniofacial microsomia patients can develop frontal plagiocephaly. This study documents a rare case of unilateral coronal synostosis, a bone fusion condition, in a child with craniofacial microsomia.

Area of Science:

  • Craniofacial Surgery
  • Pediatric Neurosurgery
  • Medical Genetics

Background:

  • Craniofacial microsomia is a complex congenital condition with diverse anomalies.
  • Frontal plagiocephaly affects 5-12% of craniofacial microsomia patients.
  • The cause of frontal plagiocephaly in these patients is often unclear, typically presenting as deformational plagiocephaly.

Observation:

  • Previous literature suggests deformational plagiocephaly in CFM, with no radiographic evidence of craniosynostosis.
  • This report details a unique case of CFM with radiologically confirmed unilateral coronal synostosis.
  • The patient presented with atypical physical findings, necessitating advanced imaging.

Findings:

  • Radiographic confirmation of unilateral coronal synostosis in a patient with CFM.
  • This case challenges the typical understanding of frontal plagiocephaly etiology in CFM.
  • Distinguishing between deformational and synostotic plagiocephaly is crucial for appropriate management.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of thorough radiographic evaluation in CFM patients with plagiocephaly.
  • Suggests a potential link between CFM and true craniosynostosis, not just positional molding.
  • Informs diagnostic and treatment strategies for complex craniofacial anomalies.

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