The radiology of the normal anterior fontanelle.

Abstract A large group of normal infants was studied to determine the radiographic appearance of the anterior fontanelle. Anterior fontanelle soft tissues may appear slightly protuberant on the normal lateral recumbent skull study of the child under one year of age. Roentgenographically detectable bulging of the anterior fontanelle did not result from transient increases in intracranial pressure (e.g., produced by crying or straining). When pronounced fontanelle bulging is present roentgenographically, increased intracranial pressure exists. Since the anterior fontanelle is readily accessible for clinical examination, the pediatrician need not rely on radiography for its investigation.