Relationship of cranial deformation with nasal obstruction and middle ear function in babies: cross-sectional study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Purpose This study aimed to analyse the relationship between cranial deformations (CD), nasal obstruction, and middle ear function in infants up to 12 months of age. Methods A cross-sectional analytical observational study was conducted with a sample of 10 babies (3 females, 7 males) aged between 1 and 7 months. The study utilized quantitative and qualitative methodologies, including the Pediatric Respiratory Severity Scale, tympanometry, and cranial anthropometry using a craniometer. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics 28, with a 95% confidence interval. Results Of the 10 participants, 70% had cranial asymmetry index (CAI) alterations, and 60% had cephalic ratio (CR) alterations. Nasal obstruction was observed in 60% of the babies. A significant linear relationship was found between CAI and ear canal volume bilaterally, and between CAI and right ear compliance. Additionally, a significant relationship was observed between CR and ear canal volume. However, no statistically significant relationship was found between CD and nasal obstruction or middle ear pressure values. Conclusion The study found no direct relationship between cranial deformities and nasal obstruction, although a tendency for nasal obstruction in babies with plagiocephaly and brachycephaly was noted. An increase in CAI was associated with a decrease in ear canal volume and right middle ear compliance, while an increase in CR was related to an increase in ear canal volume. These findings suggest that cranial deformities may impact middle ear function and structure, highlighting the importance of early referral to ENT specialists for infants with CD.
Authors: Ana Jacinta Gomes, Angélica Tavares, Maria Sousa Silva, Cláudia Silva, Ana Alexandrino, Goreti Varela, António Mota, David Tomé
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413372377