Fetal intracerebral hemorrhage: review of the literature and practice considerations

Abstract

Fetal intracerebral hemorrhage is increasingly recognized on prenatal imaging. In this review, we discuss clinically relevant aspects of fetal intracerebral hemorrhage, including germinal matrix-intraventricular hemorrhage, as well as intraparenchymal hemorrhage. We discuss current clinical practice for prenatal counseling and postnatal management of fetal intracerebral hemorrhage, and offer practical recommendations for clinicians. We propose standardized terminology for classification of fetal intracerebral hemorrhage to be used in future research. We also highlight gaps in the literature and priorities for future research, namely the need for prospective large-scale studies to better understand underlying etiologies and neurodevelopmental outcomes in fetal intracerebral hemorrhage. IMPACT STATEMENT: We discuss the diverse etiologies and outcomes of fetal intracerebral hemorrhage, and propose standardized terminology for classification. We outline current practice and offer practical recommendations for management and counseling of fetal intracerebral hemorrhage, recognizing the need for capacity-building in the newly emerging subspecialty of fetal neurology. We highlight gaps in the literature and research priorities in fetal intracerebral hemorrhage to promote collaborative research, and the development of interventions to improve pregnancy and child outcomes.

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