title: Potential complications of neonatal cephalhaematoma in the community: when to refer to the paediatric team?
abstract: Neonatal cephalhaematoma is commonly seen after a minor birth trauma, e.g. from vacuum-assisted deliveries. It is usually considered benign and resolves spontaneously without any treatment. Considerable parental anxiety may be associated with this condition and thus primary health care professionals play a significant role in providing reassurance to the new parents. Complications, although rare, are known to occur and can be potentially serious. A degree of uncertainty is often seen among primary health care professionals about whether to refer such cases to hospital. Recognition of the complications by primary health care professionals and early involvement of the paediatric services are essential to prevent serious complications such as meningitis and osteomyelitis. A case of bilateral cephalhaematoma is presented which was suspected to be infected and needed in-patient hospital care. The potential complications of a cephalhaematoma are discussed and guidelines provided for expediting early and appropriate referral of complicated cases to the paediatric services.
authors.affiliation: Department of Paediatrics, Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust, St Richard's Hospital, Spitalfield Lane, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 6SE. siba@doctors.org.uk
authors.forename: Siba Prosad
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Paul
authors.forename: Alexander
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Goodman
mesh_terms: D002097:C-Reactive Protein / Q000032:analysis; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006407:Hematoma, Epidural, Cranial / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D033162:Incidental Findings; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D010348:Patient Care Team; D011379:Prognosis; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D002097:C-Reactive Protein