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Pseudo-subarachnoid hemorrhage: a rare neuroimaging pitfall
M al-Yamany1, J Deck, M Bernstein
1Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Anoxic encephalopathy can mimic diffuse subarachnoid hemorrhage on computed tomography (CT) scans. This case highlights the importance of considering anoxic brain injury in differential diagnoses, even with CT findings suggestive of hemorrhage.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Forensic Pathology
Background:
- Drug abuse can lead to severe neurological complications.
- Anoxic encephalopathy is a critical condition resulting from oxygen deprivation to the brain.
Observation:
- A young male presented with unconsciousness post-drug abuse.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed findings consistent with diffuse subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Autopsy confirmed anoxic encephalopathy but ruled out subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Findings:
- The CT scan findings mimicked diffuse subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Histopathological examination revealed extensive anoxic brain damage.
Implications:
- Clinicians, neurosurgeons, neurologists, and neuroradiologists must be aware that anoxic encephalopathy can present with CT findings resembling subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- This diagnostic challenge underscores the need for careful clinical correlation and consideration of non-hemorrhagic causes in patients with altered consciousness and suspicious CT results.