Infected Subgaleal Hematoma After Head Trauma in an Infant

TL;DR

A five-month-old infant developed an infected subgaleal hematoma after minor head trauma, requiring hospitalization and antibiotics.

Contribution

This case highlights the potential for minor head trauma in infants to lead to infected subgaleal hematomas.

Findings

The infant showed worsening symptoms including irritability and fever after minor head trauma.

High inflammatory markers indicated an infected subgaleal hematoma.

Treatment with intravenous antibiotics led to full recovery.

Abstract

Head trauma is common among infants and children, with most cases being minor. Head trauma may be associated with long-term disability and even death, depending on the severity and the extent of brain injury. Infants and children with apparently minor injuries may be affected by clinically significant traumatic brain injury. Subgaleal hematoma is the result of an accumulation of blood in the subgaleal space following a minor head trauma. Here, we report the case of a five-month-old male who appeared initially well after minor head trauma but later developed worsening of his symptoms, including irritability, increased scalp swelling, and fever. Clinically, he was irritable with no neurological deficit, and blood investigations showed very high inflammatory markers. The clinical picture was suggestive of an infected subgaleal hematoma, so he required admission and treatment with intravenous antibiotics for seven days. Upon discharge, the patient was clinically well and had a normal clinical examination. A follow-up appointment after one month revealed a normal neurological examination.

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