Craniotabes

Craniotabes is a medical condition characterized by the softening or thinning of the bones of the skull. This condition is most commonly seen in infants, particularly those with rickets, syphilis, or prematurely born.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of craniotabes is the presence of soft spots or thin areas on the skull. These areas may feel similar to parchment. In some cases, the affected areas of the skull may be slightly depressed or indented.

Causes

Craniotabes is most commonly associated with rickets, a condition caused by vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate deficiency. It can also occur in infants born prematurely or those with syphilis. In rare cases, craniotabes may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as osteogenesis imperfecta or hypophosphatasia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of craniotabes typically involves a physical examination of the infant's skull. The doctor may also order blood tests to check for vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate deficiency. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans may be used to assess the condition of the skull bones.

Treatment

Treatment for craniotabes depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is due to rickets, treatment may involve vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate supplements. If syphilis is the cause, antibiotics may be prescribed. In cases where craniotabes is a symptom of a more serious condition, treatment will focus on managing that condition.

See also

• Rickets
• Syphilis
• Premature birth
• Osteogenesis imperfecta
• Hypophosphatasia

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