The scalp swelling that can rapidly increase in size and shape with significant acute blood loss, resulting in shock as the presenting symptom is called?

• A. Cephalohematoma
• B. Caput Succedaneum
• C. Subgaleal Hemorrhage
• D. Meningocele

Answer: (A)

Subgaleal hemorrhage is the scenario described. The subgaleal space lies between the galea aponeurotica and the skull, and bleeding into this large potential space can accumulate rapidly after delivery, especially with difficult or assisted births. Because the space is expansive and not tightly bounded by sutures, the hematoma can expand quickly, crossing suture lines and presenting as a scalp swelling that enlarges with significant blood loss. This rapid, extensive bleeding can lead to hypovolemia and shock, making it a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate resuscitation and blood product support.

Cephalohematoma is a subperiosteal bleed confined by the periosteum of a single bone and does not cross sutures; it tends to grow slowly and is not typically associated with shock. Caput succedaneum is diffuse scalp edema that crosses sutures but is edema rather than hemorrhage and usually resolves in days without causing shock. Meningocele is a neural tube defect presenting as a sac-like protrusion, not a neonatal scalp hematoma.