Hyperdense posterior falx in the neonate.
OBJECTIVE
Hyperdense posterior falx and/or torcula on unenhanced CT scans is associated with sagittal sinus thrombosis in adults. However, the validity of this finding in newborns is unknown.


METHODS
A prospective review was performed from September 1995 to November 1996, evaluating head CT scans of infants during their first week of life.


RESULTS
Eleven neonatal head CT scans revealed a hyperdense posterior falx, suggestive of sagittal sinus thrombosis. Further imaging (7 ultrasound and 4 magnetic resonance imaging examinations) revealed no evidence of venous thrombosis in 10 of the 11 infants.


CONCLUSIONS
Predominantly unmyelinated neonatal brain and increased hematocrit of neonatal blood probably contribute to the false impression of hyperdense posterior falx/torcula on neonatal head CT scans.
Kriss
V M
VM
Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Pediatrics, University of Kentucky Medical Center, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0084, USA.
D003392:Cranial Sinuses / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D004388:Dura Mater / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012851:Sinus Thrombosis, Intracranial / Q000175:diagnosis; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D018608:Ultrasonography, Doppler