Ultrasonographic Findings in Periventricular Leukomalacia in the Newborn: Two Cases Associated with Early Onset Group B Streptococcal Sepsis

The ultrasonographic findings in periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) in the newborn are described, and the relationship between PVL and group B streptococcal (GBS) infection is discussed. Two newborn infants (one preterm and one term) suffered from early onset GBS sepsis with shock; they showed increased echogenicity in the periventricular regions; one of them developed cystic changes. These findings might be due to decreased perfusion of the periventricular end arterial zone. It is suggested that serial ultrasonography should be performed in neonates who suffer hypoxic‐ischemic brain injury.