Epidural hematoma (bleeding outside of the brain or spinal cord)
About Epidural hematoma (bleeding outside of the brain or spinal cord)
A blood clot which forms between the skull and the outermost linings of the brain called the dura. The bleeding often comes from an injured artery after a skull fracture or other head trauma. The bleeding can occur rapidly leading to brain injury and death. Occasionally patients experience a lucid period where their initial symptoms improve before they become rapidly ill and unconscious.Symptoms
Headache, vomiting, confusion, seizure, coma, weakness, death. Occasionally a lucid period occurs where the patient's symptoms improve before rapid deterioration occurs.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. A head CT or MRI scan demonstrates the epidural blood. Blood tests to evaluate blood clotting may be performed.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan.
Conventional treatment summary
If significant symptoms are present, urgent drainage of the blood may be necessary. Medications to prevent seizures may be administered and any blood clotting abnormalities are reversed. If the brain swelling is severe medications to reduce the swelling (mannitol) may be administered.Medical specialties
Neurosurgery · Pediatric Neurosurgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Epidural hematoma (bleeding outside of the brain or spinal cord).