A baby's fontanel, or soft spot on the skull, can appear sunken when the baby is dehydrated due to a loss of fluid in the body, which decreases the volume of blood and other bodily fluids. This can lead to a reduction in the cushioning effect that fluid provides, causing the fontanel to sink inward. Additionally, dehydration often results in decreased skin turgor and may be accompanied by other signs such as dry mouth and fewer wet diapers. Monitoring a baby's hydration status is crucial, as severe dehydration can be serious.
Its called a fontanel
Retraction of the big fontanel, also known as the anterior fontanel, can be seen in infants who are dehydrated or experiencing increased intracranial pressure. Dehydration can lead to a sunken appearance of the fontanel, while increased pressure may cause it to bulge. It is important to monitor the fontanel's condition as it can provide insight into the infant's overall health. If concerns arise, medical evaluation is recommended.
A sunken anterior fontanel can be caused by dehydration, malnutrition, or other medical conditions that result in decreased fluid volume in the body. It is important to seek medical attention if you notice a sunken fontanel in a child, as it may indicate a need for fluid replacement or treatment for an underlying condition.
two "spots" generally combine to make up the larger spot. they are the posterior fontanel and the anterior fontanel
A fontanel, or soft spot on an infant's skull, can be affected by a head injury through increased pressure or trauma to the area. If the injury causes swelling or bleeding within the skull, it can lead to bulging of the fontanel, indicating potential intracranial pressure. Conversely, a significant head injury might cause the fontanel to appear sunken, suggesting dehydration or other complications. Monitoring the fontanel's condition after a head injury is crucial for assessing the child's health.
Need more detail but my first instinct is to say dehydrated ! Sometimes they become sunken towards the end of the gestation period - prior to hatching.
"Fontanelle" (sometimes spelled "fontanel".) There are actually four of them, but the anterior fontanelle (directly on top) is usually the most noticeable.
The posterior fontanel would be in the back of the head. The coronal fontanel would be located in another part of the brain.
Anterior (frontal) Fontanel Posterior (occipital) Fontanel Anterolateral (sphenoid) Fontanel Posterolateral (mastoid) Fontanel
The anterior fontanelle was soft at birth as this allows the baby's head to exit the birth canal safely. As the baby gets older, the fontanelle closes and hardens to a normal skull.
Fontanel means "soft spot"; fate.
A fetal skull has six fontanels: two anterior (sagittal and frontal) and four posterior (two squamous and two mastoid). These membranous gaps eventually close as the skull bones fuse together during infancy.