International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What is the medical term for the collection of blood typically seen on one or both sides of the head in the parietal area that does not cross suture lines?

1. Cephalohematoma

2. Hematoma

3. Intracranial hemorrhage

4. Cerebral contusion

The correct answer is: Cephalohematoma

Cephalohematoma is the correct term for the collection of blood that forms in the space between the skull and the periosteum, specifically in the parietal area of a newborn's head. A distinctive feature of cephalohematoma is that it does not cross suture lines due to its location beneath the periosteum, which adheres to the skull's suture boundaries. This characteristic helps differentiate it from other types of hematomas. In contrast, hematomas can occur in various locations and may or may not have the same suture line characteristics. Intracranial hemorrhage refers to bleeding within the skull that can occur in multiple areas and is typically more serious than a cephalohematoma. Cerebral contusion involves bruising of the brain tissue itself due to trauma and is distinct from a cephalohematoma as it does not pertain to collections of blood outside the brain. Understanding these nuances is critical for accurate assessment and management of conditions related to head trauma in newborns.