How can craniosynostosis be diagnosed in infants?

Craniosynostosis can be diagnosed in infants primarily through the measurement of the baby's skull. This is because the condition occurs when one or more of the sutures in a baby's skull fuse prematurely, affecting the shape and growth of the head. Healthcare providers typically conduct a physical examination, measuring the baby's head circumference and inspecting the skull for any irregularities in shape.

In many cases, the abnormal head shape can indicate that the sutures are fused, leading to a clinical suspicion of craniosynostosis. If further investigation is necessary, imaging studies like a CT scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess which sutures are involved.

Other methods, such as blood tests and developmental milestone assessments, do not provide direct evidence of craniosynostosis. Genetic counseling might be relevant in cases of suspected syndromic craniosynostosis, but it is not a primary diagnostic tool for the condition itself. Thus, measuring the baby's skull is the most straightforward and effective method for diagnosing craniosynostosis in infants.