What condition is characterized by swelling on a baby's head that does not cross suture lines, combined with jaundice?

Prepare for the COMLEX Level 2 exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to boost your understanding. Get exam-ready today!

The condition characterized by swelling on a baby's head that does not cross suture lines, combined with jaundice, is indeed cephalohematoma. Cephalohematoma occurs due to the accumulation of blood between the skull and the periosteum, typically as a result of trauma during delivery, such as the use of forceps or prolonged labor.

In cephalohematoma, the swelling is firm and well-defined, and one of its distinguishing features is that the hematoma is limited by the suture lines of the skull, meaning it does not extend beyond the borders of the sutures. This is an important differentiator from other conditions that may present with head swelling in newborns.

The presence of jaundice can arise from the breakdown of red blood cells within the cephalohematoma, releasing bilirubin and potentially leading to higher bilirubin levels in the infant's bloodstream. The combination of these symptoms provides a clear clinical picture, making cephalohematoma the most likely diagnosis in this scenario.

Recognizing the differences between cephalohematoma and other conditions such as caput succedaneum, which does cross suture lines and is due to edema, or subgaleal hemorrhage, which involves bleeding beneath

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy