At what age does the posterior fontanel typically close?

The posterior fontanel, which is located at the back of an infant's skull, typically closes at around 2 months of age. This closure is part of the normal growth and development of a child's skull, allowing for the brain to grow while ensuring that the bones eventually fuse together to protect the brain adequately.

Recognizing the timing of fontanel closure is important in pediatric assessments, as it provides critical information about an infant’s development. If the posterior fontanel were to close significantly earlier or later than this typical timeframe, it might indicate potential developmental issues or abnormal growth patterns.