title: Fast whole-body magnetic resonance imaging of healthy, term neonates: spectrum of incidental and birth-related findings.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The objective of this study was to describe normal postpartum findings seen with fast whole-body magnetic resonance imaging of healthy, term neonates.
  
  
  METHODS
  We prospectively analyzed whole-body 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging of 53 normal neonates scanned within 72 hours of birth to assess for postpartum-related findings.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Increased T2 signal within the subcutaneous and fascial tissues was the most common finding. This pattern was seen in 73.5% of neonates, within 32% of the upper extremities and 62% of the lower extremities. Additional patterns of increased T2 signal were seen in the cervical region, joint spaces, groin, and axilla. Several of these patterns were more common in larger infants. No significant differences were seen between vaginal and cesarean deliveries.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The presence of fascial fluid as demonstrated with whole-body magnetic resonance imaging is considered a normal finding in postpartum neonates, likely related to the birthing process of labor and not an indication of underlying pathology.
authors.affiliation: Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060, USA. paul.clark9@us.army.mil
authors.forename: Paul
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Clark
authors.forename: Veronica J
authors.initials: VJ
authors.lastname: Rooks
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lustik
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012016:Reference Values; D051598:Whole Body Imaging / Q000379:methods*