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Atypical accessory intraparietal sutures mimicking complex fractures in a neonate

Meryle J Eklund1, Keith C Carver2, Seth T Stalcup1

  • 1Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, MSC 323, Suite 210, Charleston, SC, 29425.

Clinical Imaging
|May 1, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Anomalous intraparietal sutures in infants can mimic fractures, potentially leading to concerns of abuse. This case highlights a rare, complex branching pattern to aid in distinguishing these sutures from fractures.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Craniofacial Anatomy

Background:

  • Division of parietal bones and anomalous cranial sutures are rare, often mistaken for fractures in pediatric imaging.
  • Radiological examination in young children can raise concerns for fracture and potential abuse when encountering these anomalies.

Observation:

  • A 4-week-old male presented with anomalous intraparietal sutures initially misinterpreted as fractures.
  • The case involved a comprehensive evaluation for nonaccidental trauma.

Findings:

  • A previously undescribed complex branching pattern of accessory intraparietal sutures was identified.
  • The study aims to increase awareness of this specific suture morphology.

Implications:

  • Radiologists need to be aware of complex accessory sutures to avoid misdiagnosis of fractures.
  • Differentiating accessory cranial sutures from fractures is crucial in pediatric evaluations, especially in cases of suspected trauma or abuse.

Keywords:
Accessory cranial suturesChild abuseIntraparietal suturesNonaccidental trauma

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