SUBGALEAL/SUBAPONEVROTIC HEMORRHAGE: A POTENTIALLY LETHAL CONDITION IN NEWBORNS
Abstract:
Subgaleal hemorrhage is determined by the rupture of the emissary veins, often associated
with traumatic delivery. The blood loss can produce hypovolemic shock, disseminated intravascular
coagulation (DIC), severe metabolic acidosis and death. Material and method: This is a case report
about a newborn who died of hemorrhagic shock secondary to a subgaleal hemorrhage. Results: The
newborn was admitted in the 3th day of life with a severe condition: hypovolemic shock, renal failure,
DIC and a scalp swelling extended to the neck, eyelids and ears. The treatment included: repeated blood
transfusions, inotropic agents, assisted ventilation. The baby died on day 12, despite of intensive care
management. Postmortem examination confirmed a massive subgaleal hemorrhage, and hypoxicischemic
lesions of the brain. Conclusions: Subgaleal hemorrhage must be diagnosed early, massive
volume resuscitation has to be initiated as soon as possible, but often the affected newborns can not be
saved because of multiorgan failure.
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