Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
caput succedaneum
Pronunciation: CAP-ut suck-eh-DAY-nee-um
Swelling of the soft tissues of the baby's scalp that develops as the baby travels through the birth canal.
Full Definition
Caput succedaneum is a condition where fluid accumulates under the scalp of a newborn, causing swelling that crosses suture lines. This benign condition occurs during vaginal delivery due to pressure from the uterine wall and cervix on the baby's head. The swelling typically resolves within a few days without treatment and should not be confused with cephalohematoma, which is bleeding between the skull and its covering.
Usage
Usage note: Always italicize when used in formal medical documentation.
In Context
- "The newborn presented with mild caput succedaneum that resolved by day three postpartum." — Pediatric assessment notes
- "Parents were counseled that caput succedaneum is a normal finding after prolonged labor." — Discharge summary
Also known as
scalp edema
fetal scalp swelling
Don't confuse with
cephalohematoma