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Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings of brain damage by hanging

Masatoyo Nakajo1, Shinichi Onohara, Kouhei Shinmura

  • 1Department of Radiology, Saiseikai Sendai Hospital, Japan. nakajo@m.kufm.kagoshima-u.ac.jp

Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|November 6, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Brain imaging revealed damage from a suicide attempt by hanging. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hemorrhages and swelling, with MRI also detecting ischemic damage.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Forensic Medicine

Background:

  • Suicide by hanging can cause severe brain injury.
  • Understanding the neuroimaging findings is crucial for diagnosis and prognosis.

Observation:

  • A 61-year-old male patient attempted suicide by hanging.
  • Imaging was performed to assess the extent of brain damage.

Findings:

  • Unenhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed hyperdense areas indicative of subcortical and subarachnoid hemorrhages, along with brain swelling.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed hemorrhagic findings and additionally identified ischemic damage in the midbrain and cerebral cortex.
  • Multifocal cerebral hemorrhages may be attributed to venous hypertension resulting from jugular vein compression.

Implications:

  • CT and MRI are valuable tools for diagnosing brain damage after attempted hanging.
  • Findings suggest a mechanism of venous hypertension contributing to cerebral hemorrhages.
  • This case highlights the severe neurological consequences of suicide attempts by hanging.

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