Metopic ridge

Definition

A metopic ridge is an abnormal shape of the skull. The ridge can be seen on the forehead.

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 closed during the third year -- although it does persist unclosed throughout life in 10% of the population.

There is no treatment or surgery required for a metopic ridge.

Common Causes

Congenital craniosynostosis, particularly trigonocephaly, is a common cause for metopic ridge.

Call your health care provider if

Call your health care provider if you notice a ridge along the forehead of your infant or a ridge forming over any of the normal sutures of the skull.

What to expect at your health care provider's office

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the patient's medical history.

Questions may include:

• When did you first notice this?
• Are there any other ridged sutures?
• Does the child have any other symptoms?

Diagnostic tests may include:

• Skull X-ray
• Head CT (possible)

References

Ridgway EB. Skull deformities. Pediatr Clin North Am. 2004; 51(2): 359-87.

Grainger RC, Allison D, Adam, Dixon AK. Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 4th ed. Orlando, Fl: Churchill Livingstone; 2001:2484.