Wormian bones

Wormian bones are extra bones that occur within sutures in the cranium. They are a rare occurrence, and are often associated with various syndromes and disorders.

Etymology

The term "Wormian" comes from the Danish anatomist, Ole Worm, who first described these bones in the 17th century.

Description

Wormian bones are small, irregular bones that occur within the sutures, especially those on the back and sides of the skull. They can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They are most commonly found in the lambdoid suture, which is located at the back of the skull. However, they can also occur in other sutures such as the coronal suture, sagittal suture, and squamosal suture.

Clinical significance

Wormian bones are often associated with various syndromes and disorders. They are a common feature in Osteogenesis imperfecta, a disorder characterized by brittle bones that break easily. They can also be seen in Cleidocranial dysostosis, a rare birth defect that affects the development of the bones and teeth. Other conditions associated with Wormian bones include Pycnodysostosis, Hypophosphatasia, and Menkes disease.

See also

• Bone
• Suture (anatomy)
• Osteogenesis imperfecta
• Cleidocranial dysostosis
• Pycnodysostosis
• Hypophosphatasia
• Menkes disease

References

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  Diagram of Wormian bones
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  Photograph of Wormian bones
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  Lambdoid suture with Wormian bones