Patient's question:
My daughter is 1 year and 8 months old, but there is still a small hole in the fontanelle that can be felt, about 11mm. The hospital check did not reveal any calcium deficiency. What could be the reason for this?Doctor's answer:
Hello. Every child's condition is different. Development will come in due time. It is recommended to have a check-up at the hospital after some time. At the top of the infant's skull, there is a diamond-shaped space called the anterior fontanelle. The size is 2.5 cm by 2.5 cm (connected by the midpoints of two pairs). It feels slightly pulsating. The anterior fontanelle typically closes between 12 to 18 months of age. In cases of rickets, cretinism, and hydrocephalus, the anterior fontanelle may close late; in microcephaly, it may close early. A fully bulging anterior fontanelle indicates elevated intracranial pressure, which is common in children with meningitis and hydrocephalus. Conversely, in dehydrated, malnourished, and severely emaciated children, the anterior fontanelle may appear sunken.