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Paediapaedia: Neurological Diseases

Fracture, Depressed Skull

Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed


Clinical Presentation:
May have a palpable skull depression.

Etiology/Pathophysiology:
From impact injuries due to birth trauma in the neonate or direct blows to the head in older children. Often have some degree of comminution. The most frequent sites are the parietal and frontal bones. Dural tears are present in 33% of cases. Associated intracranial injuries include contusion / laceration of adjacent cerebral cortex.

Pathology:
Not applicable

Imaging Findings:
Plain film shows a line of increased density due to overlapping bony margins or fragments. CT better defines the degree of bone depression and any underlying brain injury.

DDX:

References:
See References Chapter.

Section Top | Title Page


See related Provider Topics Bones, Joints and Muscles, Fractures or Injuries and Wounds.

See related Patient Topics Bones, Joints and Muscles, Fractures or Injuries and Wounds.


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http://www.vh.org/pediatric/provider/radiology/PAP/NeuroDiseases/FxDepSkull.html