Caput succedaneum

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Caput succedaneum is a neonatal condition involving a serosanguinous, subcutaneous, extraperiosteal fluid collection with poorly defined margins caused by the pressure of the presenting part of the scalp against the dilating cervix [tourniquet effect of the cervix] during delivery.

Caput succedaneum presents as a scalp swelling that extends across the midline and over suture lines and is associated with head moulding. Caput succedaneum does not usually cause complications and usually resolves over the first few days.

MR images demonstrating caput succedaneum

Management consists of observation only. A complete and fast recovery will normally occur with caput succedaneum. If the baby’s scalp contour has changed, a normal contour should be regained.

The baby will often be (understandably) irritable so may require analgesia for it’s headache and handling should be kept to a minimum for the first few days.

• Cephal
• Hematoma
• Cephalhematoma
• Subgaleal hemorrhage

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