Dolichocephaly (derived from the Ancient Greek δολιχός ‘long’ and κεφαλή ‘head’) is a condition where the head is longer than would be expected,[1] relative to its width. In humans, scaphocephaly is a form of dolichocephaly.
Dolichocephalic dogs (such as German Shepherds) have elongated noses. This makes them vulnerable to fungal diseases of the nose such as aspergillosis.[2] In humans the anterior–posterior diameter (length) of dolichocephaly head is more than the transverse diameter (width). It has an incidence of 1 in every 4,200 babies.
It can be present in cases of Sensenbrenner syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, Sotos syndrome,[3] CMFTD[4] as well as Marfan syndrome.
Although dolichocephaly may be associated with some other abnormalities, alone it is just a normal variation; unless symptomatic, it is not a cause for concern. Early diagnosis can be made by X-ray or ultrasonography. Treatment is not essential
