The Burstein, Papille et. al classification of germinal matrix haemorrhage was based on cranial ultrasound findings in neonates.
The classification has 4 grades.
| Grade I | haemorrhage within the germinal matrix which is usually at the caudothalamic groove | |
| Grade II | Extension of the haemorrhage into the ventricle; ventricle is normal size; the haemorrhage fills <50% of the ventricular volume (on coronal ultrasound image of the brain) | |
| Grade III | Haemorrhage into enlarged ventricles | |
| Grade IV | Similar to grade III but with intraparenchymal bleed as well |