Intrauterine Stroke in the Neonate

Abstract

We report a case of intrauterine stroke first noted on the prenatal ultrasound study performed to assess fetal growth and estimate the date of confinement. REPORT OF A CASE A 2,500-g male infant was born spontaneously following an uneventful pregnancy and delivery. Prenatal visits had been irregular. At 33 weeks, intrauterine ultrasound had been performed for dating purposes and assessment of fetal head size. This had shown increased biparietal diameter and decreased cerebral parenchymal density in the left hemisphere (Fig 1). Apgar scores were 8 at one minute and 9 at five minutes. Gestational age assessment by the Dubowitz method was compatible with 34-week gestation. Head circumference was 36.5 cm (95th percentile), with abnormal transillumination over the left hemisphere. The infant was markedly hypotonic, with poor head control. A computed tomographic (CT) scan of the head showed a prominent low-density area that occupied the entire upper half of the