CAPUT SUCCEDANEUM Meaning and
Definition
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Caput succedaneum is a medical term referring to a condition that affects infants, specifically newborns, during the process of childbirth. It refers to the swelling or bruising that occurs on the scalp of a baby shortly after delivery. This condition is usually characterized by a collection of fluid, known as edema, or blood beneath the outer layer of the scalp, called the subcutaneous tissue.
The condition arises due to pressure exerted on the baby's head during labor and delivery. It typically develops as the head of the baby passes through the birth canal, where it is exposed to the forces of compression and friction. The caput succedaneum appears as a soft area or a raised bump, often at the top of the baby's head, and may display a bluish or reddish coloration.
The majority of cases resolve spontaneously within a few days, and the swelling gradually subsides without treatment. However, in rare instances, the fluid or blood accumulation may persist for longer periods, leading to complications such as infection or jaundice. Therefore, monitoring the affected area and ensuring proper care are essential.
Overall, caput succedaneum is a temporary condition that occurs in newborns as a result of the trauma and pressure experienced during the birthing process. Although typically harmless, it is important for healthcare professionals to observe and manage the condition to prevent any possible complications that may arise.
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• An edematous swelling formed on the presenting portion of the scalp of an infant during birth.
• A swelling of the scalp and subjacent connective tissue forming on the presenting part of the head of a fetus during its birth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CAPUT SUCCEDANEUM
- xaput succedaneum
- vaput succedaneum
- faput succedaneum
- daput succedaneum
- czput succedaneum
- csput succedaneum
- cwput succedaneum
- cqput succedaneum
- caout succedaneum
- calut succedaneum
- ca-ut succedaneum
- ca0ut succedaneum
- capyt succedaneum
- capht succedaneum
- capjt succedaneum
- capit succedaneum
- cap8t succedaneum
- cap7t succedaneum
- capur succedaneum
- capuf succedaneum
Etymology of CAPUT SUCCEDANEUM
The word "caput succedaneum" is derived from Latin. "Caput" translates to "head" and "succedaneum" translates to "substitute" or "replacement". In medical terminology, "caput succedaneum" refers to the swelling or edema that occurs in the scalp of a newborn baby during delivery.
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