A case report of a low-birth-weight infant with a subcapsular liver hematoma and spontaneous bowel perforation

Subcapsular Liver Hematoma—A Life-Threatening Condition in Preterm Neonates—A Case Series and Systematic Review of the Literature

The subcapsular hematoma (SLH) of the liver is a rare finding in living infants. The clinical presentation of rupture is non-specific, with the signs of hypovolemic shock dominating. The causes are several, with prematurity, trauma and sepsis playing a leading role in the creation of an SHL. Umbilical vein catheterization and an increased bleeding tendency have also been associated with this usually fatal diagnosis. Abdominal ultrasonography, among other imaging methods, comprises the gold standard examination for early diagnosis. It should be differentiated from other possible causes of shock, such as sepsis and intraventricular hemorrhage, which have similar clinical presentation. We report a case series of three very low birth weight preterms (VLBW), with an SHL, during the first days of life, one of which survived from this usually catastrophic condition. A comprehensive review of the literature regarding this clinical entity was also conducted. A high index of suspicion is essential for early identification of such a case, with conservative or surgical treatment being the way to go.

Unexpected extensive hemorrhage from a subcapsular hematoma of the liver during emergent laparotomy in a premature neonate

A subcapsular hematoma of the liver is often found during autopsy in stillborn infants rather than clinically. It is usually asymptomatic unless ruptured; thus, the diagnosis is often delayed or missed. Rupture of a subcapsular hematoma in a premature neonate causes massive intraabdominal hemorrhage, which is associated with high mortality. Thus, early recognition and treatment to avoid rupture are imperative. We describe a case of life-threatening hemorrhage from a subcapsular hematoma of the liver during emergent laparotomy for mechanical obstruction in an 860 g premature neonate and discuss the appropriate preoperative preparation and anesthetic management for this case.

An unusual cause of neonatal shock: a case report

The authors present a premature male neonate who developed subcapsular hematoma of the liver (SHL) secondary to birth trauma during the delivery process. During cesarean section, it was discovered that the infant had suffered birth trauma to the abdomen that caused intra-abdominal hemorrhage, resulting in hypovolemic shock. It was diagnosed as SHL upon abdominal ultrasound. This premature newborn infant presented with hypotension and metabolic acidosis secondary to internal hemorrhage. He was managed with volume replacement including packed red blood cells (pRBC), fresh frozen plasma and cryoprecipitate transfusions. The infant’s clinical condition improved gradually, and he went home without any problems at 36 weeks of corrected gestational age. On follow-up visits, he was found to be growing and developing appropriately. High index of suspicion, appropriate work-up and prompt treatment of shock were the key steps in the management of this infant.

Hepatic subcapsular haematoma in a premature newborn

Subcapsular haematoma of the liver rarely occurs in neonates and the diagnosis is often missed or delayed. It is a catastrophic condition that can be caused by maternal, placentar or fetal factors. A high index of suspicion is essential for early identification and stabilisation of babies with such a pathology. In a newborn with hypovolemic shock and abdominal distension, haemoperitoneum should be suspected and, along with exclusion of other aetiologies, supportive therapy should be instituted. The hepatic subcapsular haematoma has a non-specific presentation, and should be considered in very low birth weight infants with hypovolemic shock. Abdominal ultrasonography is the investigation of choice. It can delineate the lesion well, differentiate it from neoplasms, rule out rupture and aid in serial follow-up. We report a premature newborn who had this uncommon condition in the early neonatal period and survived without sequelae.

Successful treatment of liver rupture in a premature infant

Subcapsular rupture of the liver is a rare and usually lethal complication in preterm infants. A multidisciplinary approach is warranted to achieve the best possible outcome for these children.

Part 2: Birth trauma: injuries to the intraabdominal organs, peripheral nerves, and skeletal system

Part 1 of this 2-part article, "Early Recognition and Treatment of Birth Trauma: Injuries to the Head and Face" provided readers with basic concepts related to birth trauma to the head and face. Part 2 focuses on the pathophysiology, etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of birth injuries to the intraabdominal organs, the peripheral nerves, the spinal cord, and the skeletal system. Risk factors for birth injury to these areas are discussed along with key issues related to the nursing care of affected infants.