Positional plagiocephaly

Positional plagiocephaly, also known as deformational plagiocephaly^[1] or flathead syndrome,^[2] is a condition most commonly found in infants and is characterized by a flat spot on the back or one side of the head caused by remaining in one position for too long.

Causes

It can be caused by a condition called torticollis in which neck muscles on one side of the head develop differently, causing the head to tilt to one side, but more commonly it happens in infants of ordinary development who sleep in one position for long periods of time. Plagiocephaly can be formed in other ways, such as Utero Constraint. This is where plagiocephaly is caused whilst still in the womb and can be seen instantly after child birth.

In 1994, a campaign known as the "Back to sleep" campaign arose which encouraged parents to keep their infants on their backs while sleeping instead of their front, which had been more conventional. This came because of the increase of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and was introduced as a way to educate parents and health carers in ways to stop SIDS happening. This is primarily the main cause of Plagiocephaly, as this means that a infant will spend more time on the back of the head increasing pressure to the area. Since the back to sleep campaign came around in 1994, the increase in plagiocephaly has risen by 600%, but has lowered SIDS by 80%.

Treatment

The condition may be left untreated, or something as simple as active repositioning of the child's head while sleeping can be tried. Placing objects which attract the baby's attention to lure them to turn their head the opposite direction of the flattened part may work. Although helmet treatment may be warranted in more severe cases, evidence for improved outcome is weak in moderate cases.^[3]

Prognosis

Prognosis for this condition is excellent and resolves in most cases before one year of age.^{[citation needed]}

Similar conditions

Another, similar condition called craniosynostosis occurs when bones in the skull fuse together too soon. This is a much more serious condition that requires surgery.

See also

• Plagiocephaly
• Tummy time

References

1. ^ "Deformational Plagiocephaly". http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/uvahealth/peds_craniofacial/dfrmplag.cfm. Retrieved 2007-12-26. 
2. ^ http://www.ajronline.org/cgi/content/full/194/3_Supplement/WS5
3. ^ "BestBets: What is the role of helmet therapy in positional plagiocephaly?". http://www.bestbets.org/bets/bet.php?id=1702. 

External links

• American Academy of Pediatrics Policy Statement