Perspectives on craniofacial asymmetry. V. The craniosynostoses

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial Surgery
• Pediatric Neurosurgery
• Genetics

Background:

• Craniosynostoses represent a diverse group of congenital disorders characterized by the premature fusion of cranial sutures.
• Etiological and pathogenetic heterogeneity is a hallmark of craniosynostoses, leading to the delineation of numerous distinct syndromes.
• Asymmetric presentations of craniosynostoses can complicate diagnosis and surgical planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight well-known craniosynostoses that commonly present with asymmetry.
• To provide a concise overview of plagiocephaly and specific syndromic craniosynostoses with asymmetric features.
• To enhance understanding of the clinical variability in craniosynostosis presentations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of established craniosynostosis syndromes.
• Focus on conditions known to exhibit asymmetric cranial vault deformities.
• Clinical description of plagiocephaly and selected syndromes.

Main Results:

• Plagiocephaly, often resulting from unilateral coronal or lambdoid suture synostosis, is a primary example of asymmetric craniosynostosis.
• Apert syndrome and Saethre-Chotzen syndrome are significant syndromic causes of asymmetric craniosynostosis.
• These conditions demonstrate diverse patterns of skull base and calvarial involvement.

Conclusions:

• Asymmetric craniosynostoses require careful clinical evaluation to differentiate between positional molding and true suture fusion.
• Recognition of plagiocephaly, Apert syndrome, and Saethre-Chotzen syndrome is crucial for appropriate management.
• Understanding the spectrum of asymmetric presentations aids in accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies for affected individuals.