Subdural Hematoma

A subdural hematoma is a type of brain injury where blood collects between the brain and its outer covering, called the dura mater. This condition affects the central nervous system and can cause pressure on the brain, leading to symptoms like headache, confusion, and weakness. It often happens after a head injury, even a minor one, especially in older adults or people taking blood thinners. The buildup of blood can increase pressure inside the skull, which may damage brain tissue and affect normal brain function. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent serious complications such as loss of consciousness or permanent brain damage.

Subdural hematoma is an accumulation of blood in the potential space between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater of the meninges, typically caused by tearing of bridging veins due to head trauma. It is classified as acute, subacute, or chronic based on the timing of symptom onset and imaging characteristics. The condition leads to increased intracranial pressure and can cause neurological deficits such as altered mental status, focal weakness, and pupillary changes. It is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in traumatic brain injury and requires rapid recognition. Risk factors include advanced age, anticoagulant use, and brain atrophy. The pathophysiology involves venous bleeding that slowly accumulates, compressing the brain parenchyma and disrupting normal cerebral function.