occipitoparietale

Occipitoparietale is a term used in anatomy to describe the region of the skull associated with the occipital and parietal bones and their articulation. The occipital bone forms the posterior base of the skull and contributes to the posterior cranial fossa, while the paired parietal bones make up much of the lateral and superior aspects of the cranial vault. The occipitoparietal region lies where these bones meet, primarily along the lambdoid suture that marks the boundary between the occipital bone and the parietal bones.

Anatomically, the occipitoparietal area includes the posterior part of the skull roof and the posterior aspects of the skull base. It is bounded by the sagittal suture anteriorly, the lambdoid suture laterally, and the occipital bone posteriorly. The area also encompasses any posterior fontanelle present in infancy, reflecting ongoing growth at the sutural joints between these bones.

Developmentally, the bones of the occipitoparietal region form through intramembranous ossification, with sutures allowing continued growth of the skull during childhood. The pattern and timing of suture closure contribute to individual variation in skull shape.

Clinically, knowledge of the occipitoparietal region aids in describing skull morphology and in interpreting imaging studies. Abnormal fusion of sutures in this area or variations in the shapes of the occipital and parietal bones can influence skull contour and development.

Etymology and usage: occipitoparietale derives from Latin roots meaning pertaining to the occipital and parietal bones. The term is used in anatomical descriptions of cranial anatomy and skeletal morphology.