What can cause a depression in the skull?

From the Guidelines

A depression in the skull can be caused by trauma, such as a head injury from an accident, fall, or physical assault, which can fracture the skull and create a depression or dent, as supported by the study by Stiell et al 1. The study by Stiell et al 1 highlights the importance of identifying high-risk patients with minor head injuries, and the Canadian C-Spine Rule (CCHR) and the National Emergency X-Radiography Utilization Study (NEXUS) criteria are useful tools in this regard. Some key points to consider when evaluating a patient with a potential depression in the skull include:

• The patient's history of trauma, including the mechanism of injury and any symptoms such as loss of consciousness, amnesia, or disorientation
• The patient's physical examination, including any signs of trauma, such as lacerations or bruising, and any neurological deficits
• The use of imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, to evaluate the patient's skull and brain
• The patient's risk factors for significant intracranial injury, such as age, coagulopathy, or intoxication In addition to trauma, other potential causes of a depression in the skull include:
• Congenital conditions, such as craniosynostosis or Gorham's disease
• Surgical procedures, such as craniotomies
• Medical conditions, such as bone cancer or infections affecting the skull It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if a new dent in the head is noticed without known trauma or if it is accompanied by symptoms like headaches, vision changes, or neurological issues, as it could indicate a serious underlying condition requiring prompt evaluation, as suggested by the study by Miller et al 1.

From the Research

Causes of Depression in the Skull

There are various factors that can contribute to a depression in the skull, including:

• Trauma to the head, which can cause a fracture or indentation in the skull [ 2 ]
• Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones and can increase the risk of fractures, including those in the skull [ 3, 4, 5 ]
• Dental trauma, which can have a long-term impact on the patient's overall quality of life and may lead to complications such as fractures or other injuries [ 6 ]

Risk Factors

Certain individuals may be more prone to experiencing a depression in the skull, including:

• Young boys, who experience dental trauma more frequently than young girls [ 6 ]
• Older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis or a history of falls [ 3, 4, 5 ]
• Individuals who have experienced minor head trauma, which can increase the risk of residual symptoms and complications [ 2 ]