Caput succedaneum is a manifestation of birth trauma, and it consists of a subcutaneous serosanguineous fluid collection external to the galea aponeurosis in the newborn's scalp. Caput succedaneum refers to common benign edema that crosses cranial suture lines and midline that appears on an infant’s scalp shortly after birth. This swelling is associated with multiple etiologies related to birth trauma, including strain to the newborn’s head during vertex (head down) and vacuum-assisted delivery. It is important to differentiate caput succedaneum from other, more concerning, etiologies of fetal head trauma that require closer monitoring.[1] Caput succedaneum is a benign neonatal condition caused by pressure on the fetal scalp during delivery. It involves bleeding below the scalp and above the periosteum, and usually resolves within 48 hours without intervention. Caput Succedaneum in Newborns Caput succedaneum , a term often encountered in neonatal care, refers to the swelling of a newborn's scalp. This condition, while typically benign, warrants a thorough understanding due to its frequent occurrence and the potential for misdiagnosis with other neonatal head injuries. This article will delve into the causes, diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, and long-term effects of caput succedaneum .
