Metopic ridge
Definition:
A ridge of bone or suture line on the forehead extending from the front of the anterior fontanel forward onto the forehead (between the two halves of the frontal bone).
Considerations:
A metopic ridge is similar to other ridged sutures. It is caused when the two halves of the frontal bones of the skull fuse together prematurely. The metopic suture normally begins to close in the second year of life and is usually completely obliterated during the third year -- although it does persist throughout life in 10% of the population. There is no treatment or surgery required for a metopic ridge.
Common causes:
Note: There may be other causes of a metopic ridge. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for a metopic ridge, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
Update Date: 10/1/99
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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