An incidentally detected hepatic subcapsular hematoma in a very low birth weight newborn: a case report

INTRODUCTION A hepatic subcapsular hematoma in a neonate shows a non-specific presentation such as the presence of an abdominal mass without symptoms of hemorrhage and is clinically less distinguished as compared to cases detected during an autopsy. CASE PRESENTATION A neonate was delivered by vaginal delivery after 29 weeks and three days gestation with breech presentation. In a laboratory study, there were slightly increased levels of liver enzymes but the platelet count and hemoglobin level were normal. An abdomen ultrasonography and CT image demonstrated the cystic mass containing an internal thin septum with compression of the lateral margin of the right hepatic lobe and Morison's pouch. A CT image showed an irregular low-density lesion in the dome of liver that was suspected parenchymal laceration. CONCLUSION We have described the sonographic and CT findings of an incidentally detected subcapsular hematoma of the liver in a neonate who showed a breech presentation, very low birth weight and was premature.