The bregma is the anatomical landmark on the skull where the coronal and sagittal sutures meet.
Detailed Explanation
The bregma marks the point of intersection between two major sutures of the skull:
- Coronal Suture: This suture separates the frontal bone (at the front of the skull) from the two parietal bones (which form the sides and roof of the skull).
- Sagittal Suture: This suture runs along the midline of the skull, separating the two parietal bones.
Therefore, the bregma is located on the top of the skull, towards the front.
Significance of the Bregma
- Anatomical Landmark: It serves as a crucial reference point in neurosurgery, stereotactic surgery, and neuroimaging.
- Fontanelle Closure: In infants, the bregma is the site of the anterior fontanelle, a soft spot that allows for brain growth. This fontanelle typically closes between 9 and 18 months of age. Premature closure or delayed closure of the anterior fontanelle can indicate underlying medical conditions.
- Craniometry: The bregma is used in craniometry, the scientific measurement of skulls, to establish coordinates and relationships between different skull features.
- Brain Mapping: In animal research, particularly in rodents, the bregma is a standardized reference point for stereotactic brain surgery and neuroanatomical studies.
In Summary
The bregma is the point on the skull where the coronal and sagittal sutures converge, acting as a critical anatomical landmark and marking the site of the anterior fontanelle in infants.
