Concerns About My Daughter's Forehead after Previous Skull Injury
At 2.5 years old, my daughter experienced a skull fracture and a minor subdural hematoma when she was just 9 months old. Since then, she has shown no significant issues. However, I’ve recently observed a slight flatness on her forehead that I can't help but scrutinize due to my concerns. I had her pediatrician examine her during her 2-year checkup, and this flatness was not present at that time. Upon touching the area, I noticed a distinct ridge that extends from her forehead down into her hairline, while the corresponding side appears completely normal without any such ridge. What are the chances that this could pose further problems? If it does become an issue, what methods are typically employed to address it? We have a follow-up appointment scheduled for September 17, but should I consider taking her to urgent care? She doesn’t seem to be in any pain when I palpate the area. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
8/27/2025, 6:22:09 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about any changes in your daughter's head shape, especially given her previous skull injury. The flatness and ridge you’ve noted could be related to positional plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) or the healing process from her prior injury. While it's good that she doesn’t seem to be in pain and your pediatrician did not express immediate concerns, here are some key points and next steps to consider:
Explanation
- Flatness or Ridge: Changes in head shape, especially following a skull injury, can happen. The brain and skull continue to grow during childhood, which sometimes leads to noticeable shifts in shape. The ridge you feel could be normal bone growth or a sign of other changes.
- Risks: In many cases, these changes do not lead to further problems, especially if the child is developing normally in other ways. However, ongoing observation is important to ensure no complications arise.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Over the next few weeks, keep an eye on her forehead's appearance. Look for any changes in size or the shape of the ridge. Note any new symptoms (e.g., headaches, behavioral changes, or unusual bulging).
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Follow-Up Appointment: Since you already have a follow-up appointment scheduled on September 17, it’s generally advisable to wait for this visit unless you notice significant changes. This allows for a thorough assessment by a professional who is familiar with her medical history.
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Urgent Care Consideration: If you observe any concerning symptoms (like worsening shape, swelling, or your daughter seeming unwell), it would be wise to seek care sooner.
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Document Your Observations: Keep a simple log of what you’re noticing about the flatness and ridge, including any measurements you can take and her behavior. This can be helpful for the healthcare provider during the follow-up.
This cautious approach should help you feel more at ease while ensuring your daughter's health is prioritized. If you have further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out.
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