The germinal matrix is an embryological structure in the fetal brain which is only seen in the fetus and in premature neonates. It is the most vulnerable area of the fetal brain and associated pathology carries significant mortality and morbidity.
Gross anatomy
The germinal matrix is usually seen from 8-28 weeks of gestation. It is located lateral to the lateral ventricles within the brain matter. It consists of a cluster of fragile cells that gives origin to both neural and glial cells, hence, it forms the grey matter 1. Germinal matrix cannot be seen in normal term babies; it can only be seen in premature neonates, mainly before 37 weeks.
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