Late germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions in very preterm infants

J Child Neurol. 2010 Jul;25(7):809-14. doi: 10.1177/0883073809346849.

Abstract

In preterm infants, the germinal matrix is a common origin of hemorrhages during the first 7 days of life. Sonographically, germinal matrix hemorrhages present as subventricular echodensities evolving into pseudocysts. Similar lesions have been reported as incidental findings also beyond 7 days of life. They may result from vasculitis and ischemic infarction, rather than hemorrhage. To assess the occurrence, time course, and significance for neurodevelopment of such late germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions, we reviewed serial cerebral ultrasound examinations obtained in 86 sequentially admitted infants (gestational age <32 weeks or birth weight <1500 g). Neurodevelopment was assessed at 3 years (Bayley Scales of Infant Development). Nine infants had late isolated germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions. Their Psychomotor Development Index scores were significantly lower than that in infants without hemorrhage. Our results suggest that late isolated germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions are of clinical significance because of their notable incidence and association with neurodevelopmental outcome.

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Developmental Disabilities / diagnostic imaging
  • Developmental Disabilities / pathology*
  • Echoencephalography
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature*
  • Infant, Very Low Birth Weight*
  • Intracranial Hemorrhages / diagnostic imaging
  • Intracranial Hemorrhages / pathology*
  • Male
  • Time Factors