Urgent Call for Awareness on Craniosynostosis in Children

Parents are being urged to seek immediate medical attention if they notice any unusual features in their child’s head or face. Symptoms such as an unusually large head, protruding eyes, uneven facial structure, or prominent scalp veins could indicate craniosynostosis, a serious congenital craniofacial disorder. This condition occurs when one or more of the skull bones fuse prematurely, which can impact the shape of the head and face and potentially hinder brain development.

At the recent 4th Indo-Gulf Twin City Craniofacial Conference held at Hotel Clarks Avadh in Lucknow, Dr. Rajiv Agarwal, the head of plastic surgery at Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), highlighted the prevalence of craniofacial disorders in the region. He noted that approximately 3 percent of the population in Uttar Pradesh suffers from conditions like craniosynostosis. As the disorder progresses, the child’s facial appearance changes, and brain development can be adversely affected, which in turn hampers overall physical growth.

Dr. Agarwal emphasized the importance of vigilant monitoring by parents, stating, “At first glance, such children may appear malnourished, but the underlying issue could be craniosynostosis.” He encourages parents to carefully observe their newborn’s head shape and seek medical advice if they notice any abnormal changes. He also shared that his team sees one new case of craniosynostosis every month.

Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Timely diagnosis and surgical intervention within the first year of life can significantly improve outcomes for affected children. Dr. Agarwal noted that when treated early, children have a chance to lead normal lives. Unfortunately, he reported that about 50 percent of patients arrive at hospitals after their first birthday, which complicates surgery and increases the risk of complications. “With timely surgery and proper medication, the condition can be controlled effectively,” he added.

During the conference, Dr. Taimoor Al Bulushi from Muscat echoed Dr. Agarwal’s concerns, stressing that early treatment not only restores physical appearance but also prevents social stigma. “If surgery is performed before the age of 1, the child looks normal by the time they are admitted to school,” he said.

Dr. Al Bulushi further pointed out that children with untreated craniosynostosis often face teasing from peers, leading to social discrimination. He called for increased awareness and empathy toward these children, emphasizing the critical role of social acceptance in their development.

Experts concluded that early diagnosis, prompt surgical intervention, and fostering a supportive environment are essential for children with craniosynostosis. With these measures, affected children can lead healthy, confident, and fulfilling lives, free from the challenges posed by their condition.