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 occurs when the two halves of the frontal bones of the skull join together prematurely.
The metopic suture normally begins to close in the second year of life, and is usually completely closed during the third year. However, it remains unclosed throughout life in 10% of the population.
Common Causes:
Congenital craniosynostosis, particularly trigonocephaly, is a common cause for metopic ridge.
Review Date: 11/14/2007
Reviewed By: Deirdre O’Reilly, M.D., M.P.H., Neonatologist, Division of Newborn Medicine, Children’s Hospital Boston and Instructor in Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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General Pediatrics
