Craniosynostosis is pathologic only when it occurs abnormally early in development. Craniosynostosis is reported to occur approximately once per 1900 live births. There is considerable variation in the severity of the cosmetic manifestations, and the less severe ones are often not recognized or recorded. There is no evidence of a familial disorder or recognized syndrome in the great majority of patients with premature closure of a single suture. Craniosynostosis can occur as a part of a larger pattern of abnormalities.
Scaphocephaly refers to an abnormally long and narrow cranium.
Caused by premature closure of the sagittal suture. This is the most common type of single suture craniosynostosis. Trigonocephaly refers to a triangular cranium with a prominent vertical ridge in the midforehead. This is caused by premature closure of the metopic suture. Plagiocephaly refers to an abnormally asymmetrical cranium, which is typically flattened on one side.