RESUMO
The risk factors associated with neonatal scalp abscess include electrode insertion for fetal scalp monitoring, traumatic scalp lacerations, and sepsis or meningitis. We report a case of neonatal scalp abscess with extension to dura mater, although our patient had no known risk factors. A 18-day-old, full-term baby was referred to the our hospital to evaluate a swelling over his left occipital scalp. A full sepsis work-up was performed and all were negative. Cranial sonography revealed echogenic cystic mass with peripheral vascularity consistent with ruptured epidermoid cyst or scalp abscess. The computed tomography (CT) scan of head was performed because of possibility of ruptured epidermoid cyt and revealed 2.0x2.0 cm sized hyperattenuating mass with suspicious intracranial extension. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of head revealed the presence of 1.4x1.1 cm sized peripheral rim enhancing mass at left occipital area consistent with scalp abscess. And also, the lesion was suspicious dural exposure at left temporal area. Clinicians should be aware that scalp abscess may occur without any risk factors and perform diagnostic workup including a complete sepsis evaluation, cerebrospinal fluid analysis (CSF), and cranial imaging study to screen for intracranial extension.