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Angiogram-negative subarachnoid hemorrhage

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Angiogram-negative subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) refers to bleeding into the subarachnoid space without identifiable aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations on initial angiographic imaging, posing diagnostic and management challenges 2.

Diagnosis

  • Initial non-invasive imaging (CT/MRI) confirms SAH presence 2.
  • Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) typically negative for vascular abnormalities 2.
  • Advanced imaging techniques (e.g., MRI angiography, CT angiography) may be considered to rule out subtle vascular lesions 2.
  • Management

  • Conservative management often initiated due to lack of identifiable source 2.
  • Close clinical monitoring for neurological changes and rebleeding risk 2.
  • Consider repeat angiography or alternative imaging if clinical suspicion persists 2.
  • Specific drug treatments not detailed in provided abstracts; focus on supportive care 2.
  • Special Populations

  • No specific guidance provided for pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities in the given abstracts 2.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize advanced imaging techniques beyond initial DSA to rule out subtle vascular causes of angiogram-negative SAH (Evidence: Moderate 2).
  • Implement conservative management strategies with vigilant clinical monitoring for patients diagnosed with angiogram-negative SAH (Evidence: Expert opinion 2).
  • Consider repeat angiographic or alternative imaging studies if clinical suspicion of an underlying lesion remains high despite negative initial studies (Evidence: Expert opinion 2).
  • References

    1 Duncan JR, Glaiberman CB. Analysis of simulated angiographic procedures: part 1--capture and presentation of audio and video recordings. Journal of vascular and interventional radiology : JVIR 2006. link 2 Chui CK, Li Z, Anderson JH, Murphy K, Venbrux A, Ma X et al.. Training and pretreatment planning of interventional neuroradiology procedures--initial clinical validation. Studies in health technology and informatics 2002. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Analysis of simulated angiographic procedures: part 1--capture and presentation of audio and video recordings.Duncan JR, Glaiberman CB Journal of vascular and interventional radiology : JVIR (2006)
    2. [2]
      Training and pretreatment planning of interventional neuroradiology procedures--initial clinical validation.Chui CK, Li Z, Anderson JH, Murphy K, Venbrux A, Ma X et al. Studies in health technology and informatics (2002)

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