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Cardiology19 papers

Subdural intracranial hematoma

Last edited: 4/16/2026

Overview

Subdural intracranial hematomas (SDH) are collections of blood that form between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater, often resulting from trauma but can occur spontaneously, particularly in elderly individuals or those with coagulopathies. 1 does not directly address SDH but highlights complications related to intracranial bleeding in neonates, which can provide context for severe cases.

Diagnosis

  • Imaging: CT or MRI is essential for diagnosis, delineating the location, size, and associated brain shifts 1.
  • Clinical presentation: Headache, altered mental status, focal neurological deficits, and seizures are common 1.
  • Hemoglobinemia monitoring: In neonates with intracranial bleeding, monitoring for hemoglobinemia and renal function may be crucial 1.
  • Management

  • Surgical evacuation: Indicated for large hematomas causing mass effect or midline shift 1.
  • Medical management: Control of intracranial pressure with osmotherapy (e.g., mannitol) 1.
  • Monitoring: Close observation for complications such as rebleeding, infection, or neurological deterioration 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Neonates: Increased vigilance for hemoglobinemia and acute renal failure following intracranial bleeding 1.
  • No specific pediatric, elderly, or comorbidity management details provided in the given abstracts.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Perform CT or MRI for definitive diagnosis of subdural intracranial hematoma 1. (Evidence: Moderate)
  • Consider surgical evacuation for hematomas causing significant mass effect or neurological compromise 1. (Evidence: Moderate)
  • Monitor neonates for hemoglobinemia and renal function post-intracranial bleeding to manage potential acute renal failure 1. (Evidence: Weak)
  • References

    1 Chovanes GI, Truex RC. Hemoglobinemia and renal failure from an intracerebral hematoma simulating a vein of Galen aneurysm. Neurosurgery 1987. link

    Original source

    1. [1]

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