Cephalohematoma; collection of blood between a newborn’s scalp and skull bones

Описание: Cephalohematoma in Newborns
Definition
Cephalohematoma is a birth injury where blood collects between a newborn’s scalp and skull, specifically under the periosteum (the membrane covering the skull bones). It results from ruptured blood vessels during delivery. Importantly, the bleeding is confined above the skull bones, so the baby’s brain is not directly affected.

Incidence

Occurs in about 1–2% of live births.

More common after prolonged labor or assisted deliveries (forceps, vacuum extraction).

Causes

Pressure on the baby’s head during vaginal delivery.

Use of vacuum extractors or forceps.

Large infant size (macrosomia).

Difficult or prolonged labor.

Clinical Features

Appears as a soft, raised bump on the baby’s head.

Usually develops hours to days after birth (not immediately).

Confined to one cranial bone (does not cross suture lines, unlike caput succedaneum).

Complications (though rare)

Jaundice: breakdown of red blood cells in the pooled blood.

Anemia: due to blood loss.

Infection: if the hematoma becomes infected.

Management & Prognosis

Typically self-limiting: resolves within weeks to months without intervention.

Observation is the main approach.

Rarely, surgical drainage may be needed if complications arise.

✅ Key Distinction from Caput Succedaneum

Cephalohematoma: blood collection, appears later, does not cross sutures.

Caput succedaneum: fluid swelling, appears immediately, crosses sutures

#Cephalohematoma