intraventricular hemorrhage
Pronunciation: in-tra-ven-TRIK-yu-lar HEM-or-ij
Bleeding into the brain's ventricular system, primarily affecting premature infants and potentially causing long-term neurological complications.
Full Definition
Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is bleeding into the ventricular system of the brain, most commonly occurring in premature infants born before 32 weeks gestation. The hemorrhage typically originates from the fragile blood vessels in the germinal matrix, a highly vascular area near the ventricles that is present only during fetal development. IVH is graded on a scale of I-IV based on severity, with grades III-IV associated with higher risk of long-term neurological sequelae including cerebral palsy, cognitive delays, and hydrocephalus. Risk factors include extreme prematurity, respiratory distress, fluctuations in blood pressure, and coagulation disorders. Diagnosis is made by cranial ultrasound, and management focuses on supportive care and monitoring for complications.
Usage
Usage note: Include the grade (I-IV) when documenting IVH severity for prognostic purposes.
In Context
- "Cranial ultrasound revealed grade II intraventricular hemorrhage in this 28-week premature infant." — NICU progress note
- "Serial head ultrasounds monitor for progression of intraventricular hemorrhage in high-risk preterm infants." — Neonatal imaging protocol