Wide open anterior fontanelle is found in following diseases except –
**Core Concept**
A wide open anterior fontanelle is a clinical sign indicating an abnormality in the development or closure of the anterior fontanelle, the largest fontanelle located at the top of the skull. This fontanelle normally closes by 18-24 months of age, but its persistence or widening can be a sign of various underlying conditions.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
A wide open anterior fontanelle can be seen in conditions such as Rickets, where softening of the bones (osteomalacia) leads to delayed closure of the fontanelles. It can also be associated with hydrocephalus, where increased intracranial pressure and subsequent enlargement of the skull can cause the fontanelles to remain open. In addition, conditions such as Down syndrome and premature birth can also be associated with delayed closure of the anterior fontanelle.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Rickets is a condition that affects bone development, leading to softening and weakening of the bones, including the skull. A wide open anterior fontanelle can be a sign of rickets, so this option is incorrect.
* **Option B:** Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, leading to increased intracranial pressure and enlargement of the skull. This can cause the anterior fontanelle to remain open, making this option incorrect.
* **Option D:** Down syndrome is a genetic disorder associated with various physical and developmental abnormalities, including delayed closure of the anterior fontanelle. This option is incorrect because a wide open anterior fontanelle can be a sign of Down syndrome.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
One important clinical correlation to remember is that a wide open anterior fontanelle can be a sign of underlying bone disease, such as rickets or osteomalacia, which can have serious consequences if left untreated.
**Correct Answer:** A. Rickets