Caput succedaneum typically resolves within which timeframe?

Caput succedaneum typically resolves within which timeframe?

• A. Within the first week
• B. Within 24 hours
• C. After several months
• D. Never resolves

Answer: (A)

Caput succedaneum is swelling of the scalp caused by edema from pressure during delivery. It’s a superficial issue that crosses the scalp’s suture lines and will reabsorb on its own as the edema resolves, typically within the first few days and usually by about a week after birth. That makes the timeframe “within the first week” the best fit. This is different from cephalohematoma, which is a subperiosteal bleed that stays within the bone’s boundaries and does not cross sutures; it can take weeks to months to resolve. So accounts like resolving within 24 hours or taking several months don’t align with caput succedaneum’s usual course, and “never resolves” isn’t accurate for this condition. No treatment is needed beyond routine newborn care.

Caput succedaneum is swelling of the scalp caused by edema from pressure during delivery. It’s a superficial issue that crosses the scalp’s suture lines and will reabsorb on its own as the edema resolves, typically within the first few days and usually by about a week after birth. That makes the timeframe “within the first week” the best fit.

This is different from cephalohematoma, which is a subperiosteal bleed that stays within the bone’s boundaries and does not cross sutures; it can take weeks to months to resolve. So accounts like resolving within 24 hours or taking several months don’t align with caput succedaneum’s usual course, and “never resolves” isn’t accurate for this condition. No treatment is needed beyond routine newborn care.