Intracranial Hematoma

Overview

An intracranial hematoma is a collection of blood within the skull that can occur when a blood vessel bursts in the brain. This condition can be caused by various factors, including head injuries, bleeding disorders, and certain medical conditions. Intracranial hematomas can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Types of Intracranial Hematoma

1. Extracerebral hematoma: This type of hematoma occurs when blood collects outside the brain tissue, typically between the brain and the skull.
2. Intracerebral hematoma: This type of hematoma occurs when blood collects within the brain tissue.
3. Subarachnoid hematoma: This type of hematoma occurs when blood collects in the space between the brain and the spinal cord.
4. Epidural hematoma: This type of hematoma occurs when blood collects between the dura mater and the skull.
5. Subdural hematoma: This type of hematoma occurs when blood collects between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater.

Causes of Intracranial Hematoma

• Head injury: A head injury due to a car accident, fall, or other trauma can cause a blood vessel to rupture and lead to an intracranial hematoma.
• Bleeding disorders: Certain bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia, can increase the risk of developing an intracranial hematoma.
• Cerebral amyloid angiopathy: This condition occurs when there is a buildup of amyloid protein in the walls of blood vessels in the brain, which can cause them to rupture.
• Aneurysm: An aneurysm is a weakened area in a blood vessel that can rupture and cause bleeding.
• Arteriovenous malformation (AVM): AVM is a congenital condition in which there are abnormal connections between arteries and veins in the brain that can cause bleeding.

Risk Factors of Intracranial Hematoma

• Age: Older adults are more susceptible to developing intracranial hematomas due to age-related changes in the blood vessels.
• Previous head injury: Individuals who have had previous head injuries are at higher risk of developing an intracranial hematoma.
• Bleeding disorders: Individuals with bleeding disorders are at higher risk of developing an intracranial hematoma.
• Family history: Individuals with a family history of intracranial hematomas or bleeding disorders may be at higher risk of developing the condition.

Symptoms of Intracranial Hematoma

Preventions of Intracranial Hematoma

• Wearing a helmet: Wearing a helmet when engaging in activities that put you at risk of head injury, such as biking or skiing, can help prevent intracranial hematomas.
• Avoiding head injury: Avoiding head injuries by taking precautions when engaging in physical activities or sports can help prevent intracranial hematomas.
• Managing bleeding disorders: Managing bleeding disorders through medication and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing an intracranial hematoma.

Diagnosis of Intracranial Hematoma

• Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan is used to visualize the blood accumulation in the skull.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI is used to visualize the blood accumulation in the skull and assess for any damage to brain tissue.
• Physical examination: A physical examination is performed to assess for signs of increased pressure on the brain.

Treatment for Intracranial Hematoma

1. Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove the blood accumulation and relieve pressure on the brain.
2. Medications: Medications may be used to manage symptoms such as headaches and seizures.
3. Monitoring: Patients with intracranial hematomas may need to be monitored for signs of complications or worsening symptoms.

When to seek medical attention ?

1. Severe headache: If you experience a severe headache that is not relieved by medication or worsens over time.
2. Confusion or disorientation: If you experience confusion or disorientation that is not relieved by medication or worsens over time.
3. Seizures: If you experience seizures or have a history of seizures.