What is the primary function of the fontanels in the skull of an infant?

• A. To protect the brain from external trauma
• B. To allow for the growth of the brain during infancy
• C. To provide attachment points for facial muscles
• D. To serve as a reservoir for cerebrospinal fluid

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the anatomy of the infant skull: Fontanels are soft spots on a baby's skull where the bones have not yet fused together. These areas are covered by a tough membrane that protects the underlying brain.
2. Recognize the developmental significance: The fontanels allow for the rapid growth of the brain during infancy. As the brain grows, the skull needs to expand, and the fontanels provide the necessary flexibility for this expansion.
3. Consider the physiological aspect: The presence of fontanels facilitates the passage of the infant's head through the birth canal during delivery, as the skull can slightly compress and reshape.
4. Differentiate from other functions: While fontanels do offer some protection, their primary function is not to protect the brain from external trauma, nor do they serve as attachment points for facial muscles or reservoirs for cerebrospinal fluid.
5. Conclude with the primary function: The main role of fontanels is to accommodate the growth of the brain during infancy, ensuring that the skull can expand as needed.