Assessment of paediatric head shape and management of craniosynostosis.

BACKGROUND

The presentation of a child with an abnormal head shape can be challenging and should be met with an appropriate clinical approach. Craniosynostosis is a common cause of paediatric skull deformity and is best managed by a multispecialty tertiary referral unit with regular follow-up. As craniosynostosis frequently requires time-sensitive surgery, it is important to differentiate between craniosynostosis and common self-limiting conditions such as deformational plagiocephaly.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to outline the clinical approach to paediatric skull deformity in the general practice setting, and to highlight the importance of early referral if there is clinical suspicion of craniosynostosis.

DISCUSSION: Parental concern regarding infant head shape is common. General practitioners (GPs) have an important role in assessment, diagnosis and referral for paediatric skull deformities. GPs are well placed to clinically differentiate between deformational plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis and provide timely referrals to optimise patient outcomes.