cephalohematoma
Pronunciation: sef-ah-low-hee-mah-TOE-mah
Collection of blood beneath the periosteum of the fetal skull that does not cross suture lines.
Full Definition
A cephalohematoma is a traumatic birth injury consisting of bleeding between the skull bone and its periosteum, creating a fluctuant mass that feels firm and well-demarcated. Unlike caput succedaneum, cephalohematoma does not cross suture lines because the periosteum is tightly adherent at the sutures. This condition typically becomes apparent several hours after birth as the initial scalp swelling from delivery subsides. Cephalohematomas are more common with vacuum or forceps delivery, prolonged labor, and large babies. Most resolve spontaneously over weeks to months, but large ones may contribute to hyperbilirubinemia as the blood is reabsorbed. Rarely, they may calcify or become infected.
Usage
Usage note: Key distinguishing feature is that it does not cross suture lines, unlike caput succedaneum.
In Context
- "A right parietal cephalohematoma was noted on the newborn's second day of life." — Pediatric examination
- "The cephalohematoma was well-demarcated and did not cross the sagittal suture." — Physical assessment