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Published on: June 18, 2021
Acute on chronic subdural hematoma as a rare complication in a microscopic polyangiitis patient receiving
N Takahashi1, H Kimura, R Kitai
1Department of General Medicine, Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Japan.
Abstract:
We report a 56-year-old man with microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) who developed acute exacerbation of a chronic subdural hematoma (SDH). Laboratory data demonstrated elevation of myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPOANCA) and rapidly progressing renal dysfunction. Renal biopsy showed crescentic glomerulonephritis (GN) with membranous nephropathy (MN). He was treated with corticosteroids, antithrombotic agents, and an immunosuppressant. One month after initiation of treatment, he had a mild headache. One month later, he developed acute SDH. Although he recovered completely after the operation, he finally died of bacterial infection. On autopsy, a scar of vasculitis was confirmed in the leptomeninges as well as in the kidney and lung. Although SDH is a rare complication in MPA, nephrologists must pay more attention to the initial symptoms before a hematoma attack such as headache, especially in patients using antithrombotic agents.
Insights
Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) can rarely lead to acute subdural hematoma (SDH). Early symptoms like headaches in MPA patients, especially those on antithrombotics, warrant close attention.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a systemic vasculitis often affecting the kidneys.
- Chronic subdural hematoma (SDH) is a collection of blood in the subdural space, typically associated with head trauma or anticoagulation.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old male with MPA presented with elevated myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPOANCA) and acute renal dysfunction.
- Renal biopsy revealed crescentic glomerulonephritis (GN) with membranous nephropathy (MN).
Findings:
- The patient developed an acute exacerbation of a chronic subdural hematoma (SDH) during treatment for MPA.
- Autopsy confirmed vasculitis scars in the leptomeninges, kidney, and lung.
Implications:
- Subdural hematoma is a rare but serious complication of microscopic polyangiitis.
- Nephrologists should monitor for neurological symptoms, particularly headaches, in MPA patients on antithrombotic therapy due to the risk of SDH.
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