Fetal germinal matrix and intraventricular haemorrhage diagnosed by MRI

Subependymal germinal matrix haemorrhage and intraventricular haemorrhage (GMIVH) is a common complication of delivery in preterm neonates but has rarely been observed in the fetus. We report two cases of GMIVH in fetuses of 36 weeks gestation, clearly demonstrated by antenatal MRI. In both cases progressive ventriculomegaly was observed, and ventriculoperitoneal shunts were placed at 19 and 6 months of age, respectively. Prenatal GMIVH may be a cause of congenital hydrocephalus, for which no aetiology has yet been found.