Recent Review of Germinal Matrix Hemorrhage–Intraventricular Hemorrhage in Preterm Infants

Abstract

Germinal matrix hemorrhage–intraventricular hemorrhage (GMH–IVH) is a particular type of intracranial hemorrhage that affects the preterm population. GMH–IVH originates from bleeding within the highly vascular area near the center of the brain known as the germinal matrix. The pathogenesis of GMH–IVH is unclear; it is likely related to hemodynamic changes and fluctuations in cerebral blood flow within a fragile developing brain. Cranial ultrasound is the primary diagnostic test and reveals the degree of GMH–IVH based on a grading system. Management includes prevention of preterm delivery with meticulous antenatal and postnatal preventative strategies. This article discusses current evidence specific to the pathogenesis, risk factors, diagnosis, grading scales, and management approaches with GMH–IVH in preterm infants.