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Basis Cranii Interna in Metopism: A Comparative Geometric Morphometric Study.

Silviya Nikolova1, Diana Toneva1

  • 1Department of Anthropology and Anatomy, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.

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|January 10, 2026
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Summary

Metopism, the persistence of the metopic suture, does not significantly alter cranial base size. However, specific shape differences in the anterior and middle cranial fossae were observed in metopic skulls compared to controls.

Keywords:
dry craniageometric morphometricsinternal cranial basepersistent metopic sutureµCT

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Area of Science:

  • Anthropology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Anatomy

Background:

  • The human cranium is an integrated structure where modules interact during development.
  • Metopism, the persistence of the metopic suture, is known to cause vault alterations.
  • It is hypothesized that metopism may also influence cranial base morphology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate potential shape and size modifications of the internal cranial base in individuals with metopism.
  • To compare the cranial base morphology of metopic skulls with a control group.

Main Methods:

  • Geometric morphometric techniques were applied to 3D µCT scans of 46 metopic and 183 control adult male Bulgarian crania.
  • 37 landmarks on the endocranial surface were recorded and grouped into anterior, middle, and posterior cranial fossa configurations.
  • Statistical analyses, including Principal Component Analysis, were used to compare size and shape.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in cranial base size were found between metopic and control groups.
  • Significant shape differences were detected in the anterior and middle cranial fossae, but not the posterior cranial fossa.
  • Principal Component Analysis did not show clear group separation, suggesting other factors contribute to shape variation.

Conclusions:

  • While metopism is associated with specific shape variations in the anterior and middle cranial fossae, it does not significantly alter overall cranial base size.
  • The observed shape differences are not solely attributable to the persistence of the metopic suture, indicating complex developmental interactions.