Anemia of Prematurity - Portal Neonatal

The extent of hemorrhage may be severe enough to cause anemia and hypotension. Resolving
hematoma predisposes to hyperbilirubinemia. Rarely, cephalhematoma may be a focus of infection
leading to meningitis or osteomyelitis. Linear skull fractures may underlie a cephalhematoma (5-20%
of cephalhematomas). Resolution occurs over weeks, occasionally with residual calcification.
No laboratory studies usually are necessary. Skull radiography or CT scanning is used if neurologic
symptoms are present. Usually, management consists of observation only. Transfusion and
phototherapy are necessary if blood accumulation is significant. Aspiration is more likely to increase
the risk of infection. The presence of a bleeding disorder should be considered. Skull radiography or
CT scanning is also used if concomitant depressed skull fracture is a possibility.
Subgaleal hematoma
Subgaleal hematoma is bleeding in the potential space between the skull periosteum and the scalp
galea aponeurosis. Ninety percent of cases result from vacuum applied to the head at delivery.
Subgaleal hematoma has a high frequency of occurrence of associated head trauma (40%), such as
intracranial hemorrhage or skull fracture. The occurrence of these features does not correlate
significantly with the severity of subgaleal hemorrhage.
The diagnosis is generally a clinical one, with a fluctuant boggy mass developing over the scalp
(especially over the occiput). The swelling develops gradually 12-72 hours after delivery, although it
may be noted immediately after delivery in severe cases. The hematoma spreads across the whole
calvarium. Its growth is insidious, and subgaleal hematoma may not be recognized for hours. Patients
with subgaleal hematoma may present with hemorrhagic shock. The swelling may obscure the
fontanelle and cross suture lines (distinguishing it from cephalhematoma). Watch for significant
hyperbilirubinemia. The long-term prognosis generally is good.
Laboratory studies consist of a hematocrit evaluation. Management consists of vigilant observation
over days to detect progression. Transfusion and phototherapy may be necessary. Investigation for
coagulopathy may be indicated.
Caput succedaneum
Caput succedaneum is a serosanguinous, subcutaneous, extraperiosteal fluid collection with poorly
defined margins. It is caused by the pressure of the presenting part against the dilating cervix. Caput
succedaneum extends across the midline and over suture lines and is associated with head
moulding. Caput succedaneum does not usually cause complications. It usually resolves over the first
few days. Management consists of observation only.
Abrasions and lacerations
Abrasions and lacerations sometimes may occur as scalpel cuts during cesarean delivery or during
instrumental delivery (ie, vacuum, forceps). Infection remains a risk, but most heal uneventfully.
Management consists of careful cleaning, application of antibiotic ointment, and observation. Bring
edges together using Steri-Strips. Lacerations occasionally require suturing.
Subcutaneous fat necrosis
Subcutaneous fat necrosis is not usually detected at birth. Irregular, hard, nonpitting, subcutaneous
plaques with overlying dusky red-purple discoloration on the extremities, face, trunk, or buttocks may
be caused by pressure during delivery. No treatment is necessary. Subcutaneous fat necrosis
sometimes calcifies.