Calvarium
The calvarium is the upper part of the skull that encloses the brain.
The calvarium, also known as the skullcap, is the upper part of the cranium that encloses and protects the brain. It is composed of several bones that are fused together in adults, forming a rigid structure. The calvarium plays a crucial role in protecting the brain from physical damage and providing attachment points for muscles and ligaments.
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The calvarium is made up of the following bones:
- The frontal bone, which forms the forehead and the upper part of the eye sockets.
- The parietal bones, which are two large bones that form the sides and roof of the cranium.
- The occipital bone, which forms the back and base of the skull.
- The temporal bones, which are located at the sides and base of the skull, near the ears.
These bones are joined together by sutures, which are fibrous joints that allow for some movement during birth and growth but become more rigid in adulthood.
Development[edit | edit source]
The development of the calvarium begins in the embryo and continues through childhood. The bones of the calvarium are initially separated by soft spots called fontanelles, which allow for the growth of the brain and skull. As a child grows, these fontanelles gradually close as the bones fuse together.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the calvarium is to protect the brain from injury. It also provides a surface for the attachment of muscles that are involved in facial expression and mastication (chewing). Additionally, the calvarium helps to support the structure of the face and the upper part of the respiratory and digestive tracts.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
In medical practice, the calvarium is often examined in cases of head trauma, congenital abnormalities, and diseases that affect the bones. Conditions such as craniosynostosis, where the sutures close prematurely, can lead to abnormal skull shapes and require surgical intervention.
Also see[edit | edit source]
- Cranium
- Sutures of the skull
- Fontanelle
- Craniosynostosis
- Frontal bone
- Parietal bone
- Occipital bone
- Temporal bone
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
