Posterior fossa subdural hematoma of the newborn

Abstract

✓ A newborn infant with a posterior fossa subdural hematoma is described, and nine similar cases from the literature summarized. A postnatal asymptomatic period was followed by signs of increased intracranial pressure. The diagnosis was established on the basis of negative subdural taps, bloody or xanthochromic ventricular fluid under increased pressure, and demonstration of a posterior fossa mass on the ventriculogram. Surgical evacuation with careful observation for an associated intracerebellar hematoma is the treatment of choice. Five of the 10 cases developed postoperative communicating hydrocephalus.