Subependymal germinal matrix and intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants: diagnosis by CT.

Hemorrhage into the subependymal germinal matrix with rupture into the cerebral ventricles causes significant morbidity and mortality in premature infants. CT brain scanning was performed on eight premature infants on whom autopsy confirmation was obtained. Excellent sensitivity and accuracy in detecting germinal matrix hemorrhage and intraventricular hemorrhage were found. Germinal matrix hemorrhage appears as a parenchymal collection of blood adjacent to the foramen of Monroe and has a convex margin laterally. CT scanning of living premature infants is feasible in diagnosing nonfatal episodes of germinal matrix and intraventricular hemorrhage as well as subsequent development of hydrocephalus and porencephaly.