Zoloft Birth Defects Blog

It is normal human behaviour to frown at something that they find uncommon. Parents whose children have congenital anomalies are not excluded from that. Craniocynostosis, an abnormal condition involving the skull is one example of a birth anomaly. An irregularly shaped head is a characteristic due to early closure of one or more sutures. The brain is rapidly increasing in size starting at birth until the 36th month of life where it reportedly triples in size. The sutures serve as the skull’s support so it can expand and accommodate the growing brain. When the sutures of the skull close at an earlier time, it is called craniocynostosis. It has no known cause but it is said that genetics and exposure to teratogens such as drugs can lead to the development of the defect. Observations led to the association of the anomaly as a Zoloft birth defects, a type of SSRI antidepressant.

Does my Child have Craniocynostosis?

The most obvious sign upon sight is an irregular head shape. Palpation of the head would show that “soft spots” or fontanels are absent or disappeared earlier than expected. There is also a raised ridge on the affected sutures and you will notice that there is slow or no increase of the baby’s head over time. The signs will not immediately show at birth but will be seen later in life. You should immediately see your doctor if you can see that your baby’s head has an unusual shape or isn’t growing as it should be.

Is There a Treatment for This Condition?

Minor cases can be left untreated since it will not have a major impact on your baby’s health and will later be covered with hair once developed. However, surgery is needed for severe cases. It is ideally done during infancy but the type and timing will be dependent on the extent and if there is an underlying condition. The goal of the surgery is to decrease the brain’s internal pressure and provide enough space for the brain to develop properly. The surgical team is composed of a surgeon specializing in brain surgeries and another which specializes with head and facial surgeries. This situation is identified as emotionally draining and can put the parents in an very anxious state so it is helpful that they can share what their experience to parents under similar conditions. It is advised to ask your physician for any support group present in your community.