Question

I have an 18-month-old baby at home, and the fontanel is still about two fingers wide. I’m told this might be a sign of rickets. Can it still be treated? How should it be treated? How should I respond?

Answer

  1. Typically, the fontanel closes around the age of 18 months. If the closure is delayed, it may affect the child’s intelligence and motor development.
  2. The most common cause of delayed closure is hydrocephalus, which is not closely related to rickets.
    1. It is recommended to undergo a brain CT scan to rule out hydrocephalus.
    2. If the child’s intelligence and motor development are normal, there is usually no major issue, and observation can continue.
    3. If the child shows developmental abnormalities, it is advisable to visit a neurology department as soon as possible. The doctor will ask: Does the child walk steadily?