AbstractObjectiveSeveral cases of isolated localized edema of the genital area in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants within the last 5 years prompted a search for possible explanations and a search of the literature.Study designA retrospective chart review of all cases of localized genital area edema in our 16-bed community level-3 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) between January 2007 and December 2017.ResultsA total of six patients with localized edema of the genital area were found. Among the six cases, five provided descriptions of time of onset. Only one case had a plausible etiology [inguinal hernia (IH)].ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this entity is not well described in the literature. Etiologies are speculative. Prolonged observation in the NICU by virtue of ELBW-status suggests that there are no detrimental effects, the condition does not appear to preclude discharge and cautious expectant management and reassurance are therefore in order.
An Empirical Case of Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Idiopathic Edema
