Types of Encephalocele by Location
Nasofrontal encephalocele
A nasofrontal encephalocele is a frontoethmoidal subtype that protrudes at the junction of the frontal and nasal bones, typically at the bridge of the nose.
In short: Nasofrontal encephalocele
- It appears at the top of the nose, between the eyes.
- It is one of three frontoethmoidal subtypes.
- It is an anterior, sincipital lesion.
- It can affect the appearance of the central face.
What it is
It is a frontoethmoidal encephalocele emerging at the nasal bridge, where the frontal and nasal bones meet. The location at the top of the nose makes it a visible central-face lesion.
Understanding Nasofrontal encephalocele
The position at the bridge of the nose affects the appearance of the central face, so surgical planning considers both watertight closure and reconstruction of this visible area. As with other frontoethmoidal types, it can be associated with eye spacing changes, and the appearance continues to evolve as the facial skeleton grows. A combined neurosurgery-craniofacial approach is typical.
Why it matters
Understanding the specific location helps families anticipate that repair will address both the protrusion and the appearance of the nasal bridge, and that results may continue to change with growth.
Common questions
Where does it appear?
At the bridge of the nose, between the eyes.
Is it anterior?
Yes — it is an anterior, sincipital subtype.
How is it different from a nasoethmoidal type?
It emerges at the bridge rather than along the side of the nose.
Bottom line
A nasofrontal encephalocele emerges at the nasal bridge and is one of the frontoethmoidal subtypes.
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