Infected Subgaleal Hematoma After Head Trauma in an Infant

Amer Salman1, Thaer S Abohamra1, Sania Shahid1

  • 1Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, Dubai, ARE.

Cureus
|July 11, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Minor head trauma in infants can lead to serious complications like infected subgaleal hematoma. Prompt diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are crucial for recovery, even with initially mild symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Traumatology
  • Infectious Diseases in Children

Background:

  • Head trauma is frequent in pediatric populations, with potential for severe outcomes.
  • Subgaleal hematoma, a collection of blood in the subgaleal space, can arise from minor head injuries.

Observation:

  • A five-month-old infant presented with delayed symptoms after minor head trauma, including irritability, scalp swelling, and fever.
  • Clinical examination revealed irritability without neurological deficits, alongside elevated inflammatory markers.

Findings:

  • The clinical presentation and laboratory results strongly suggested an infected subgaleal hematoma.
  • The infant required hospitalization and a seven-day course of intravenous antibiotics.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of vigilant assessment for subgaleal hematoma in infants following head trauma, even if seemingly minor.
  • Early recognition and appropriate antibiotic therapy are vital for successful management and preventing long-term sequelae.

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