Computed tomography findings of ongoing subgaleal hemorrhage

Mayumi Hangai; Yuki Kimura; Harushi Mori; Kojiro Yasui; Shinya Tsuchida; Naoto Takahashi

doi:10.1111/ped.12310

Computed tomography findings of ongoing subgaleal hemorrhage

Pediatr Int. 2014 Aug;56(4):623-6. doi: 10.1111/ped.12310.

Authors

Mayumi Hangai¹, Yuki Kimura, Harushi Mori, Kojiro Yasui, Shinya Tsuchida, Naoto Takahashi

Affiliation

¹ Department of Pediatrics, University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.

PMID: 25252054
DOI: 10.1111/ped.12310

Abstract

Neonatal subgaleal hemorrhage (SGH) is a serious adverse event that is often underestimated and sometimes goes unrecognized. It can cause bleeding complications and jeopardize the patient's life. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are important in optimizing the outcome in neonates with SGH. Herein we describe the case of a newborn who developed severe SGH and died. We report unenhanced computed tomography (CT) of ongoing SGH, which showed a low-density region in the surrounding area of the head. The density could be explained by unclotted active bleeding and low hematocrit. Even if a patient with clinically suspected SGH has a low-density region on CT, the presence of SGH should not be excluded.

Keywords: computed tomography; disseminated intravascular coagulation; neonate; perinatal mortality; subgaleal hemorrhage.

Publication types

Case Reports

MeSH terms

Fatal Outcome
Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging*
Humans
Infant, Newborn
Male
Periosteum*
Scalp*
Skull*
Tomography, X-Ray Computed*