Subgaleal Hematoma from Hair Combing

Authors:
  • CFCathey E. Falvo
    Cathey E. Falvo
  • JFJ. Anthony San Filippo
    J. Anthony San Filippo
  • AVAlexandre Vartany
    Alexandre Vartany
  • EOEmilie H. S. Osborn
    Emilie H. S. Osborn
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Abstract
We have seen two young black girls with massive subgaleal hematoma apparently caused by traction on their scalp during hair combing. CASE REPORTS Case 1 A 9-year-old girl was seen in the emergency room with the complaint of tender swelling of the entire scalp. Trauma was denied. The child wore her hair in rows of tight braids. There was fluctuant swelling of the entire scalp. No other stigmata of battering were found. Results of the following laboratory tests were normal: hemoglobin, hematocrit, prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and platelet count. Skull roentgenogram showed only soft tissue swelling. Aspiration produced 130 ml of nonclotting blood.