Advanced
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
germinal matrix hemorrhage
Pronunciation: JER-min-al MAY-tricks HEM-er-ij
Bleeding in the fragile vascular area of the developing brain, most common in preterm infants.
Full Definition
Germinal matrix hemorrhage occurs in the highly vascularized but structurally fragile germinal matrix of the developing brain, typically between 24-32 weeks gestation. This bleeding can extend into the ventricular system or brain parenchyma. Grading ranges from Grade I (confined to germinal matrix) to Grade IV (with parenchymal involvement). The condition is associated with fluctuations in cerebral blood flow and is more common in very low birth weight infants.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as GMH; specify grade when documented.
In Context
- "Head ultrasound revealed a Grade II germinal matrix hemorrhage with extension into the lateral ventricle." — Radiology report
- "The 28-week infant developed germinal matrix hemorrhage on day 3 of life following a period of hypotension." — Progress note
Also known as
GMH
subependymal hemorrhage
Don't confuse with
intraventricular hemorrhage
periventricular leukomalacia