FONTANELLE Meaning and
Definition
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A fontanelle, also known as a "soft spot," is a anatomical feature found in infants where the bones of the skull have not fully fused together. It is a gap or membrane-covered space located between bones, typically present at birth and gradually closing as the child grows.
Fontanelles primarily occur in the frontal, sagittal, and posterior regions of an infant's skull. The largest fontanelle is the anterior or "anterior fontanelle," which is located at the top front portion of the head. It is diamond-shaped and can feel soft and slightly pulsating to the touch. The posterior fontanelle is positioned at the back end of the skull, while the sagittal fontanelle runs along the midline between the anterior and posterior fontanelles.
Fontanelles play an important role in a baby's development, allowing for the growth and expansion of the brain during the first year of life. They provide flexibility, enabling the skull to pass through the birth canal during childbirth. Additionally, fontanelles allow for heat exchange and help to regulate the pressure within the brain.
The closure of fontanelles typically occurs by the age of 2 years, with the posterior fontanelle closing by a few months, and the anterior fontanelle closing by 12-18 months of age. Monitoring the development and closure of fontanelles is important for assessing a baby's growth and checking for any underlying health conditions.
Common Misspellings for FONTANELLE
Etymology of FONTANELLE
The word "fontanelle" is derived from the French word "fontanelle", which means "small fountain" or "little spring". This term is a diminutive of the word "fontaine", meaning "fountain". The French word itself comes from the Latin word "fonticulus", which has the same meaning of "small fountain". The term "fonticulus" is derived from "fons" meaning "source" or "spring". In English, "fontanelle" refers to the soft spots on a baby's skull, where the bones have not yet fully formed and are joined by a membrane.
Similar spelling words for FONTANELLE
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