ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site fontanelle A space between the bony plates of an infant's skull, often called a "soft spot". There are two fontanelles in a baby's skull. The anterior fontanelle, situated in the center front, is diamond-shaped and about 2.5 centimeters across. The posterior fontanelle, situated towards the rear, is triangular and about 6 millimeters across. These spaces gradually close over as the infant's skull plates grow towards each other. The posterior fontanelle closes within about two months of birth, the anterior fontanelle within about 18 months. The seams between the bones do not completely fuse, however, until old age. Related entry human skeleton Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP