plagiocephaly in adults

Plagiocephaly in adults refers to an asymmetric deformation of the skull that appears as a flat spot on one side. This condition can be caused by various factors such as birth abnormalities, positioning while sleeping, and certain diseases like syphilis. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available for plagiocephaly in adults.

Causes of Plagiocephaly in Adults

Plagiocephaly in adults can occur due to a variety of factors, including:

1. Birth abnormalities: Some infants are born with a misaligned head that leads to plagiocephaly shortly after birth. This condition is also known as positional plagiocephaly.
2. Positioning while sleeping: Infants who spend an extended period lying on their backs are more prone to develop plagiocephaly. This is often referred to as 'back to sleep' syndrome.
3. Certain diseases: Some systemic diseases like syphilis have been associated with plagiocephaly in adults, possibly due to inflammation and tissue damage during fetal development.

Symptoms of Plagiocephaly in Adults

Plagiocephaly in adults may present with various symptoms depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:

1. Pain and discomfort in the back of the head
2. Head pressure and pain
3. Difficulty sleeping due to pain or discomfort
4. Speech problems, including hoarseness or difficulty enunciating
5. Vision problems, including diplopia (double vision) or esotropia (strabismus)
6. Facial asymmetry
7. Difficulty eating or speaking, particularly when the mouth is open
8. Numbness or tingling in the extremities

Diagnosis of Plagiocephaly in Adults

Diagnosing plagiocephaly in adults is a complex process that involves both physical examination and imaging studies. A healthcare provider may use various imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the skull for signs of deformation or asymmetry.

Treatment Options for Plagiocephaly in Adults

Treatment for plagiocephaly in adults mainly depends on the underlying cause. However, conservative treatments are often recommended initially, including:

1. Reducing pressure on the affected area through repositioning, such as placing the child on their abdomen or altering their sleeping position.
2. Using custom-fit helmets to gently correct abnormal head shapes, particularly in children younger than 14 months old when skull bones are still soft.
3. Surgical correction may be considered in adulthood if conservative measures are unsuccessful or if the plagiocephaly is severe.

Conclusion

Plagiocephaly in adults can be a result of various factors, including birth abnormalities, positioning while sleeping, and certain diseases. While many infants may successfully cope with plagiocephaly using conservative treatments such as repositioning and helmets, adults may require more invasive procedures such as surgery. Healthcare providers should carefully assess each case and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on the individual’s specific needs.