Types of Encephalocele by Location
Parietal encephalocele
A parietal encephalocele is an encephalocele at the top of the head, through the parietal bones.
In short: Parietal encephalocele
- It is less common than occipital types.
- Some are small atretic lesions.
- It occurs over the convexity (rounded top) of the skull.
- It is evaluated with imaging like other types.
What it is
It is a convexity encephalocele protruding through the parietal bones at the top of the head. It is less common than occipital encephaloceles.
Understanding Parietal encephalocele
Parietal encephaloceles are evaluated with imaging like other types to determine their contents and any associated findings, then repaired surgically. Some parietal lesions are small atretic encephaloceles, which are usually mild but still imaged to check for any deeper connection. As a convexity lesion, a parietal encephalocele typically presents as a visible swelling on the top of the head.
Why it matters
Understanding that parietal encephaloceles range from small atretic lesions to larger sacs — and that imaging guides the assessment in every case — helps families see why even a small top-of-head lesion is evaluated thoroughly.
Common questions
Where is it?
At the top of the head.
Can parietal lesions be mild?
Some are small atretic encephaloceles.
Is it common?
Less common than occipital types.
Bottom line
A parietal encephalocele occurs at the top of the head and is sometimes a small atretic lesion.
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