What cause malformation of the skull?

Several factors can cause malformation of the skull, including:

1. Genetic Disorders: Some genetic disorders, such as craniosynostosis, Apert syndrome, and Crouzon syndrome, can cause the skull to form abnormally. These disorders affect the growth and fusion of the skull's bones.

2. Birth Defects: Certain birth defects, such as encephalocele (a protrusion of the brain and its membranes through an opening in the skull) and craniorachischisis (a severe neural tube defect involving the incomplete closure of the skull and spinal cord), can lead to malformation of the skull.

3. Head Injuries: Traumatic injuries to the head, especially in infants and young children, can cause skull fractures and deformities.

4. Hydrocephalus: A condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain, can cause the skull to enlarge abnormally to accommodate the increased volume.

5. Rickets: A disease caused by vitamin D deficiency, which affects bone development and can lead to skeletal deformities, including malformation of the skull.

6. Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic disorders, such as osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease) and hypophosphatasia, can affect bone mineralization and cause skull abnormalities.

7. Tumors: Skull malformations can also occur due to the growth of benign or malignant tumors in or around the skull.

8. Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as alcohol and certain medications during pregnancy, can increase the risk of skull malformations in the developing fetus.

It's important to note that the specific cause of skull malformation may vary in individual cases, and a medical professional should be consulted for proper diagnosis and management.