Late germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions in very preterm infants.
In preterm infants, the germinal matrix is a common origin of hemorrhages during the first 7 days of life. Sonographically, germinal matrix hemorrhages present as subventricular echodensities evolving into pseudocysts. Similar lesions have been reported as incidental findings also beyond 7 days of life. They may result from vasculitis and ischemic infarction, rather than hemorrhage. To assess the occurrence, time course, and significance for neurodevelopment of such late germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions, we reviewed serial cerebral ultrasound examinations obtained in 86 sequentially admitted infants (gestational age <32 weeks or birth weight <1500 g). Neurodevelopment was assessed at 3 years (Bayley Scales of Infant Development). Nine infants had late isolated germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions. Their Psychomotor Development Index scores were significantly lower than that in infants without hemorrhage. Our results suggest that late isolated germinal matrix hemorrhage-like lesions are of clinical significance because of their notable incidence and association with neurodevelopmental outcome.
Horsch
Sandra
S
Department of Neonatology, Erasmus Medical Center/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Kutz
Patrizia
P
Roll
Claudia
C
D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D004453:Echoencephalography; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D019102:Infant, Very Low Birth Weight; D020300:Intracranial Hemorrhages / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D013997:Time Factors