Subgaleal Hemorrhage with Periorbital Hematoma in a 6-Year-Old Boy Following a Road Traffic Accident: A Case Report

Subgaleal hemorrhage is a rare yet potentially life-threatening condition in pediatric patients, characterized by bleeding in the subgaleal space and is often associated with head trauma. Although it is commonly observed in neonates following vacuum extraction, its occurrence following road traffic accidents is rare and under-reported. This case report presents a 6-year-old Nigerian boy who developed subgaleal hemorrhage and periorbital hematoma following a road traffic accident. Owing to the unavailability of a CT scan, diagnosis was achieved using skull X-ray and ultrasound. Tranexamic acid was administered as part of the medical management. Surgical intervention was performed to control the hemorrhage, with approximately 320ml of blood evaculated, and no drainage catheter was left in situ. The patient responded well to treatment, with full recovery observed during follow-up. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and intervention in subgaleal hemorrhage, particularly in resource-limited settings.