Spontaneous perinatal epidural haemorrhage in a newborn. (21st February 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kroon, Elke; Bok, Levinus A; Halbertsma, Feico
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2012
• Publication Date: 2012-02-21
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr.09.2011.4735
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : A full-term neonate, born by caesarean section, presents with focal seizures. EEG and cranial ultrasound are normal. MRI of the cerebrum shows an epidural haematoma. Perinatal intracranial haemorrhage in the full-term newborn is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Most perinatal intracranial haemorrhages are located either subdural or intracerebral, rarely epidural. Epidural haemorrhage is usually a complication of assisted delivery, however it may also occur without forcipal or vacuum extraction, as demonstrated in this case. An epidural haemorrhage should be suspected on clinical findings, even in the absence of an assisted delivery. As cranial ultrasound sonography often misses epidural haemorrhage due to parietal location of the haemorrhage, the diagnosis needs either cerebral CT or MRI.