Emergency Medicine Questions Emergency Physician

Is it concerning to have a crevice on your head?

Hi, so little bit of background I noticed a crevice like indent on the top right of my head about 3 inches in length. It's tender to the touch and not noticeable with my hair. Should I get this checked out? Is this normal? I've suffered from cluster headaches since I was young and had 3 concussions in my 24 years. I've brought this up to a doctor before but they dismissed it.

Male

2 Answers

A crevice or indent on your head, especially if it's tender to the touch or causing you discomfort, should not be dismissed without further evaluation. While it may be nothing serious, it's essential to have it examined by a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues, especially considering your history of cluster headaches and concussions.

There are several potential causes of an indent on the head, including:

1. **Trauma**: Your history of concussions raises concerns about any head-related symptoms or changes in the skull's shape. Trauma or injury to the head could potentially cause an indent or discomfort.

2. **Bone Abnormalities**: Some individuals may have variations in the shape and structure of their skull bones, which can manifest as indentations or asymmetry.

3. **Infections or Abscesses**: Infections or abscesses in the scalp or skull can lead to localized tenderness and changes in the surface of the skin or bone.

4. **Underlying Medical Conditions**: Certain medical conditions, such as bone disorders or skin conditions, can affect the appearance of the scalp or skull.

Given your symptoms and medical history, it is strongly advisable to seek a second opinion from a different healthcare provider or specialist, such as a neurologist or dermatologist. Request a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans if deemed necessary, to determine the cause of the crevice and associated tenderness. It's essential to advocate for your health and ensure that any concerning symptoms are adequately investigated and addressed.
The crevice is a consequence of softening of the cranial bone structure at that particular site. Likely it is a site that sustained a hit in your past. It most likely is not an active progressive problem and it is not a derivative or result of a brain problem. Yes, have your primary care provider know what your concerns are.