Why it is called caput medusae?
The term caput medusae is Latin for “head of Medusa.” Medusa was a character in mythology who had snakes for hair. The swollen veins can look like snakes extending from a knot in the middle that loosely resembles a head.
How does Caput Medusa occur?
It is caused by dilation of the paraumbilical veins, which carry oxygenated blood from mother to fetus in utero and normally close within one week of birth, becoming re-canalised due to portal hypertension caused by liver failure.
Is caput medusae serious?
Caput medusae, sometimes called a palm tree sign, refers to the appearance of a network of painless, swollen veins around your bellybutton. While it’s not a disease, it is a sign of an underlying condition, usually liver disease.
Is caput medusae reversible?
If caput medusa is due to a blockage in your inferior vena cava, you’ll likely need emergency surgery to fix the blockage and prevent other complications.
Are ascites painful?
Ascites is a condition in which fluid collects in spaces within your abdomen. If severe, ascites may be painful. The problem may keep you from moving around comfortably. Ascites can set the stage for an infection in your abdomen.
What is the difference between caput Succedaneum and cephalohematoma?
Caput succedaneum is similar to cephalohematoma as both involve unusual bumps or swelling on the newborn’s head. However, the main difference is that lumps caused by bleeding under the scalp is cephalohematoma, whereas lumps caused by scalp swelling due to pressure is known as caput succedaneum.
What causes caput Succedaneum?
Caput succedaneum is swelling (edema) that affects a newborn’s scalp. It most commonly occurs from pressure on the head as the baby moves through the birth canal during a prolonged or difficult vaginal delivery. In caput succedaneum (kuh-PUT sec-seh-DAY-knee-um), fluid builds underneath the scalp, causing swelling.