Differences Between Subgaleal Hematoma And Cephalohematoma
Subgaleal hematoma and cephalohematoma are both conditions that we frequently observe in newborns.
The biggest differences between these two are their location and causes, although both conditions are found near the brain. In addition to that, subgaleal hematoma is typically a more serious condition and may lead to some complications.
Subgaleal Hematoma and Cephalohematoma should not be confused with other forms of hematoma, such as epidural and subdural hematoma.
What Is Cephalohematoma?
Cephalohematoma is a medical condition referring to an accumulation of blood between a baby’s scalp and the skull. To be precise, it is located above the skill but beneath the outer covering of the bone called periosteum.
It is a condition typically associated with damaged blood vessels, which happens during labor and delivery. The blood from these damaged vessels then accumulates under the skin of the scalp [1].
Oftentimes, cephalohematoma happens with operative and prolonged deliveries of the babies. In most cases, it resolves spontaneously within a short time of typically one month [2].
Generally, it does not affect the brain as the blood is sitting on top of the skull not under it [1, 3].
What Is Subgaleal Hematoma ?
A subgaleal hematoma is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of blood within the subgaleal space [4]. The subgaleal space is located between the galea aponeurosis and periosteum of the skull [4].
Subgaleal hematoma occurs when the emissary veins between the periosteal and aponeurotic layers of the scalp rupture [2]. This condition is associated with head trauma and even minor injuries.
It is most commonly reported in pediatric patients, specifically newborns [5, 6]. Usually, it is due to continuous head banging, child maltreatment, or repeated falls which may occur due to seizure attacks [2]. Although it is less common, we can observe subgaleal hematoma in adults as well [4].
Typically the subgaleal hematomas resolve spontaneously by absorption without any prescribed intervention or treatment [2]. However, in some cases, it may lead to life-threatening conditions, in which intervention is necessary. In some cases, the hematoma may enlarge and the patient requires a surgical procedure to have it removed [2].
Interestingly, the largest subgaleal hematoma documented in medical literature had approximately 1300 ml [2].
Summary: Subgaleal Hematoma vs Cephalohematoma
Both subgaleal hematoma and cephalohematoma are types of hematomas occurring in the head and typically associated with pediatric patients. However, they do have differences in their location, risk factors, and also potential complications.
A cephalohematoma refers to the accumulation of blood beneath the periosteum in newly born babies. Usually, this condition resolves alone within a month [2] and even though it may sound scary, it does not pose any significant risk to the patient [5]. That being said, there are rare cases that required surgical treatment [2].
On the other hand, a subgaleal hematoma is a blood accumulation under the scalp. It may lead to significant blood loss and these types of hematomas are often associated with head trauma. Such hematoma has been linked to severe headaches or potential scalp necrosis [6, 4].
One key difference between the two is that a cephalohematoma does not cross the sagittal suture, while a subgaleal hematoma can extend across the suture line [7]. This distinction can be crucial in diagnosing and treating these conditions.