cephalohematoma
Pronunciation: sef-ah-low-HEE-mah-toe-mah
A collection of blood between the skull and periosteum, typically appearing hours after birth and limited by suture lines.
Full Definition
Cephalohematoma is a subperiosteal hematoma that occurs between the skull bone and its periosteum, usually resulting from birth trauma during delivery. Unlike caput succedaneum, cephalohematoma typically appears several hours after birth, is firm and non-pitting, and does not cross suture lines. The condition generally resolves spontaneously over weeks to months as the blood is reabsorbed, though calcification may rarely occur. Proper spelling and differentiation from caput succedaneum is essential in medical documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Note the single 'l' in cephalo- and ensure distinction from caput succedaneum in documentation.
In Context
- "A left parietal cephalohematoma was identified on day two examination." — Neonatal assessment
- "The cephalohematoma remained confined within the parietal bone margins." — Follow-up pediatric note