Large chronic cephalohematoma without calcification

Cephalohematomas following birth normally resorb within the 1st month of life. In cases of prolonged resorption, over greater than 1 month, cephalohematomas typically begin to calcify. We report the case of a 3-month-old child with a persistent, large cephalohematoma that did not calcify. After observation alone failed to demonstrate a decrease in the size of the hematoma, 30 cm(3) of old blood was aspirated, and the patient's head was wrapped. Unlike calcified cephalohematomas, this noncalcified lesion did not require open surgical intervention. A treatment protocol for cephalohematomas is presented.