Verified by Edna Skopljak MD
Edna Skopljak is a medical doctor and an editor at BJBMS medical journal. She graduated from the University of Sarajevo School of Science and Technology.
Soft spots on babies, also known as fontanelles, are the two areas on a baby’s head where the bones of the skull have not yet fused. It is usual for a baby to have delayed or no fontanelle closure.
Reasons why some babies don’t have soft spots:
1. Premature birth
Babies born prematurely may have delayed fontanelle closure or no soft spot. Their skulls may not have developed as much as full-term babies. It is important to note that the soft spot on these babies will close gradually over time as their skull matures.
2. Genetics
Some babies are born without a soft spot due to genetics, which appears to be hereditary in some families.
3. Asymmetrical closure
In some cases, babies may have one soft spot that closes before the other, known as asymmetrical closure. This does not usually pose any risks to the baby’s health and can be monitored by a doctor to ensure that it closes properly.
4. Hydrocephalus
Developing babies may have a condition called hydrocephalus, an excess fluid accumulation in the brain that can cause the soft spot to close early or not form. Hydrocephalus is usually treated with a shunt to drain the excess fluid from the brain.
How long does a baby not to have a soft spot take?
In most cases, a baby’s fontanelles close within its first year. However, it is common for the soft spots to remain open longer, and it can take up to 18 months for closure. If a baby’s fontanelles have not closed by 18 months, further medical investigation may be required to rule out other more severe conditions.
Baby’s soft spot is low- what does it mean?
A sunken fontanelle can indicate dehydration, malnourishment, or potential infection. Paying close attention to this signal can help you diagnose any underlying issues and ensure your baby’s health. If your baby’s soft spot appears sunken and is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, fever, and vomiting, it is essential to seek medical advice immediately. A bulging fontanelle can also be a sign of increased intracranial pressure and should also be investigated by a medical professional.
Can a baby with craniosynostosis live a normal life?
Yes, a baby with craniosynostosis can live an everyday life, and there is no reason why it should not experience the same milestones as any other baby. Craniosynostosis is a condition where a premature fusion of the skull sutures restricts the average growth of the brain. The earlier it is detected, the better chance a baby has of having a normal outcome. Treatment for craniosynostosis may involve surgery or observation and therapy as necessary.
Conclusion
Every baby is different, and there are various reasons why some babies may have no soft spot. While it can be concerning if your baby has an open fontanelle, in most cases, this will close with time and does not require medical intervention.
However, seek medical advice immediately if you notice any other symptoms. With the proper care and attention from doctors and parents alike, babies born with craniosynostosis can live everyday life.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/baby/what-is-the-babys-soft-spot
https://nortonchildrens.com/news/when-does-a-babys-soft-spot-go-away/
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/about-the-fontanelle
https://www.healthline.com/health/sunken-fontanelle
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/craniosynostosis.html
