Raccoon eyes in a newborn

Introduction: Periorbital ecchymoses or "raccoon eyes" in the neonate/infant may be due to basal skull fractures or neuroblastoma. Case Report: A term male baby born by vacuum-assisted delivery developed a medium size subgaleal hematoma on the first day of life (DOL). On the third DOL, bilateral periorbital ecchymosis (raccoon eyes) developed. The cerebral ultrasound, hematologic and coagulation studies were normal. The raccoon eyes were interpreted as an extension of the subgaleal hematoma to the orbital ridges. At DOL 38, he was thriving and the raccoon eyes were resolved. Discussion: "Raccoon eyes" may result from a subgaleal hematoma without fracture caused by birth trauma.