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Caput succedaneum is characterized by fluid accumulation in the soft tissue of a newborn's head, specifically from the pressure exerted during birth. This condition occurs as a result of the molding of the baby's head while passing through the birth canal. The crucial defining feature of caput succedaneum is that it crosses suture lines of the skull, which distinguishes it from other conditions such as cephalohematoma, where blood collects between the skull and the periosteum and does not cross suture lines.

The accumulation in caput succedaneum is primarily made up of serous fluid, making it a type of edema, and it can present as a generalized swelling on the head. It typically resolves on its own within a few days post-delivery, without requiring intervention.

Other conditions mentioned do not accurately describe caput succedaneum. For instance, visible bruising would be indicative of other types of injuries to the head, and swelling in the extremities is unrelated. Understanding these nuances is important for differentiating between various conditions that can present in newborns.