This suture is a flexible joint that connects bony plates in the skull.

Alina Rudya/Bell Collective / Getty Images

What Is the Metopic Ridge?

The metopic suture line runs from the top of the head down to the center of the forehead.

Mother and baby, which has a metopic ridge suture on forehead

Alina Rudya/Bell Collective / Getty Images

It is usually completely fused by the time your child is nine months old.

It should be noted that ridging is not normal with any other suture lines in ababy’s skull.

What Is Metopic Craniosynostosis?

A metopic ridge without other symptoms is not serious and does not require treatment.

However, when other symptoms occur, a metopic ridge may be a sign of craniosynostosis.

Craniosynostosis affects the flexible joints (sutures) in an infants head.

These sutures, which usually remain open and flexible until a child is two years old, fuse prematurely.

This can lead to increased intracranial pressure that may affect development as the brain pushes against the fused skull.

If left untreated, craniosynostosis can potentially lead to issues such as blindness, seizures, or brain damage.

Tests to Evaluate Metopic Ridge

Metopic ridge can usually be diagnosed with a physical exam.

Your doctor will closely examine your childs forehead and feel along the ridge.

No treatment is needed for a normal metopic ridge.

Summary

A metopic ridge is a prominent ridge running down your child’s forehead.

It is where suture lines meet between the two bony plates.

Diagnosis of craniosynostosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests.

Treatment usually requires surgery, although it is not always necessary in mild cases.

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