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What is the typical size range of the anterior fontanelle in infants?

  1. 1 to 2 cm

  2. 3 to 5 cm

  3. 4 to 6 cm

  4. 6 to 8 cm

The correct answer is: 4 to 6 cm

The typical size range of the anterior fontanelle in infants is generally between 4 to 6 cm, making the selected answer accurate. The anterior fontanelle is the soft spot located on the top of an infant's head, where the bones of the skull have not yet fused together. This gap allows for brain growth and development during early childhood. Measuring 4 to 6 cm is considered normal for infants up to about 12-18 months of age, after which it typically begins to close as the cranial bones gradually fuse. Recognizing the proper size is crucial for healthcare providers, as it can indicate potential developmental issues if the fontanelle is significantly larger or smaller than the expected range. The other size ranges provided do not accurately reflect the normal physiological state of the anterior fontanelle in infants, as they fall outside the range typically observed in clinical practice. This understanding is key for clinicians conducting physical assessments during pediatric evaluations.