Intraventricular Hemorrhage in Preterm Infants, Review Article

Abstract

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) or germinal matrix (GM) in other words, is a condition that can occur in premature births and can lead to long-term medical and developmental effects. While GM/IVH can happen in full-term infants, the hemorrhage in this group of infants is different from periventricular hemorrhage (PVH)/IVH in premature infants. Family members and caregivers of preterm infants and those at risk of preterm birth are confronted with two significant uncertainties concerning these newborns: Is the survival of this child likely? Will the child experience long-term sequelae, particularly developmental sequelae, if they survive? The significance of these questions lies in their potential to impact future medical decisions, including the level of intensity in the care provided. Infants born prematurely can suffer from various acquired lesions in the central nervous system (CNS), leading to long-term disability. These lesions include GM/IVH, periventricular white matter injury, hemorrhage, and diffuse injury to the developing brain. GM/IVH continues to be a major contributor to both illness and death in premature newborns.  GM/IVH is primarily diagnosed by brain imaging techniques, typically cranial ultrasonography, as depicted below. Screening and serial examinations are essential for diagnosing GM/IVH, as it can occur without any noticeable clinical indications.