Early Blood Transfusion and Resolution of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Associated with Massive Subgaleal Hemorrhage.

A male infant delivered to a primipara woman following vacuum applications. He was vigorous at birth, with small caput and scalp bruising. His head was enlarging; he became pale with respiratory distress. Subgaleal hemorrhage (SGH) was suspected. His hematocrit was noted to be 26.2 percent prior to transfusion of O, Rh-negative blood (40 mL/kg). Moderate disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) was noted at 12 hours of age. Posttransfusion of fresh frozen plasma (FFP), his condition became stable, and DIC gradually resolved. Head magnetic resonance imaging did not show intracranial hemorrhage. Although one episode of seizures was noted, electroencephalogram was normal. With the application of obstetric vacuum, we recommend that the neonatal health care professionals frequently evaluate the infant's condition. In light of developing fluctuant subgaleal fluid associated with pallor, anemia, metabolic acidosis, and respiratory distress, immediate blood transfusion is warranted. In the presence of DIC, transfusion of FFP is beneficial.