Aplasia cutis congenita: Impact of early treatment on calvarial osteogenesis

Abstract

We describe an infant with severe aplasia cutis congenita of the scalp that was characterised by a full-thickness calvarial bone defect combined with the absence of dura mater complicated by sagittal sinus haemorrhage. The defect was successfully managed by closure with a local temporal flap combined with a periosteum patch to allow closure of the dura mater. Previously, conservative treatments failed to remedy unexpected, massive bleeding, which could potentially threaten a patient's life. We highlight the osteogenic potential of surgically manipulated dura mater in this patient who was managed early with a surgical approach.