Types of Encephalocele by Location
Convexity encephalocele
A convexity encephalocele occurs over the rounded outer surface of the skull, such as parietal or occipital locations.
In short: Convexity encephalocele
- It appears on the dome of the skull.
- Parietal and many occipital encephaloceles are convexity types.
- It usually presents as a visible external swelling.
- It is evaluated with imaging for contents and associated findings.
What it is
It is an encephalocele over the skull's rounded outer surface — the convexity — as opposed to the skull base. Parietal and many occipital encephaloceles fall into this category.
Understanding Convexity encephalocele
Unlike basal encephaloceles that protrude inward, convexity encephaloceles bulge outward on the head and are typically visible. They are then evaluated with imaging for their contents and any associated findings, just like other types. Because they are external and visible, they are usually recognized at or near birth rather than discovered later.
Why it matters
Understanding the distinction between convexity and basal encephaloceles helps families see why some encephaloceles are obvious from the outside while others are hidden, and why the visible ones are still imaged to determine what they contain.
Common questions
Where is a convexity encephalocele?
On the rounded top or back of the skull.
Is it visible?
Usually yes, as an external swelling.
How does it differ from a basal type?
It bulges outward, while basal types protrude internally.
Bottom line
A convexity encephalocele bulges outward on the dome of the skull, such as parietal or occipital sites.
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