Extensive wormian bones in a patient with the Hallermann-Streiff syndrome

Area of Science:

• Medical genetics
• Pediatric radiology
• Craniofacial anomalies

Background:

• Hallermann-Streiff syndrome is a rare congenital disorder.
• Premature closure of cranial sutures (craniosynostosis) is a potential complication in infants.
• Wormian bones are accessory ossicles found within cranial sutures.

Observation:

• A 5-month-old female infant diagnosed with Hallermann-Streiff syndrome underwent evaluation for possible craniosynostosis.
• Skull radiography was performed to assess the cranial sutures and overall skull morphology.
• Radiographic imaging revealed the presence of numerous Wormian bones along the bilateral parietal sutures.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates a significant association between Hallermann-Streiff syndrome and the presence of extensive Wormian bones.
• The findings suggest that widespread Wormian bone formation may be a characteristic skeletal feature of this syndrome.
• This observation expands the known spectrum of skeletal anomalies associated with Hallermann-Streiff syndrome.

Implications:

• Hallermann-Streiff syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of infants presenting with multiple Wormian bones.
• Radiographic identification of numerous Wormian bones may prompt further investigation into underlying genetic syndromes.
• This case contributes to a better understanding of the phenotypic variability and skeletal manifestations of Hallermann-Streiff syndrome.