Umbilical cord hematoma – a successful case of a non-frequent acute fetal distress etiology

Abstract

Background: Umbilical cord hematoma is a rare condition, with mortality rates up to 50%. Most of the literature describes cases with poor prognosis. Case description: In this case, a healthy pregnant woman in labor presented some variable decelerations on the fetal heart rate monitoring ending in sustained bradycardia. An emergency C-section was performed, giving birth to a 40-weeks male newborn with an umbilical cord hematoma until placental insertion and, slightly stump bleeding. Newborn got pale and, had respiratory distress in the first hour of life. He presented transient metabolic acidosis with hyperlacticaemia and, anemia. There was a favorable evolution with supportive therapy. No risk factor was identified and, histological examination confirmed the diagnosis. The patient remained asymptomatic and, presented normal neurodevelopment during follow-up. Discussion: This case report aims to demonstrate a good outcome when a high level of suspicion is taken and immediate medical and, surgical interventions are performed