Fontanelles - sunken
Alternative Names
Sunken fontanelles; Soft spot - sunkenWhen to Contact a Medical Professional
A sunken fontanelle CAN BE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY and a health care provider should check it right away.
The health care provider will perform a physical examination and ask questions about the child's symptoms and medical history, such as:
- When did you first notice that the fontanelle looked sunken?
- How severe is it? How would you describe it?
- Which "soft spots" are affected?
- What other symptoms are present?
- Has the baby been ill, especially with vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating?
- Is the skin turgor poor?
- Is the baby thirsty?
- Is the baby alert?
- Are the baby's eyes dry?
- Is the baby's mouth moist?
Tests may include:
- Blood chemistries
- CBC
- Urinalysis
- Tests to check the baby's nutritional status
You might be referred to a place that can provide intravenous (IV) fluids if the sunken fontanelle is caused by dehydration.
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