A premature infant born at 34 weeks presented with acute onset lethargy and cessation of feeding. The imaging modality of choice to screen for intraventricular haemorrhage is
**Core Concept**
The underlying principle being tested involves the diagnosis of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in premature infants, which is a critical condition due to the vulnerability of their developing brains. **Intraventricular hemorrhage** is a major concern in preterm infants due to the fragility of blood vessels in the germinal matrix.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the most appropriate imaging modality for detecting IVH in premature infants. **Cranial ultrasound** is the preferred initial imaging technique for screening IVH in neonates, especially in premature babies, because it is non-invasive, readily available, and does not expose the infant to radiation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Is incorrect because, although CT scans can detect hemorrhages, they expose the infant to radiation, making them less ideal for initial screening in neonates.
**Option B:** Is incorrect because MRI, while highly sensitive, is not typically used for initial screening due to its limited availability, higher cost, and the logistical challenges of scanning critically ill newborns.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's crucial to remember that **cranial ultrasound** is the first-line imaging modality for detecting IVH in premature infants due to its safety, ease of use, and lack of radiation exposure.
**Correct Answer:** D. Cranial Ultrasound.