Chronic subdural hygroma with thrombocythemia: first case report

Subdural hygroma is a known delayed complication following head trauma. It is a rare type of intracranial bleeding. Most cases do not present with symptoms. However, some patients experience gradual neurological decline. Prior research has shown that subdural hygromas often remain undetected clinically. No prior work had resolved the interaction between subdural hygroma and thrombocythemia. This gap motivated the investigation of a unique case. The patient’s condition provided insight into a rare co-occurrence of subdural hygroma and elevated platelet levels.

The aim of this case report is to document a novel presentation of subdural hygroma in a patient with thrombocythemia. The specific problem is the lack of prior reports on this combination. The motivation is to highlight the potential for non-surgical resolution in such cases. The patient’s symptoms included headache and gait instability. These symptoms are not typical of acute subdural hematomas. The presence of thrombocythemia added diagnostic complexity. The goal was to determine if chemotherapy could resolve the hygroma. This case provides a new perspective on treatment options.

The study involved a 72-year-old male presenting with post-traumatic symptoms. Cranial computed tomography was used to identify subdural hygroma. The patient’s medical history included thrombocythemia. Blood tests confirmed elevated platelet levels. Chemotherapy with hydroxyurea was administered. The patient’s response was monitored over time. Neurological assessments were conducted regularly. The absence of surgical intervention was a key aspect of the treatment approach.

The patient’s subdural hygroma resolved after chemotherapy. Hydroxyurea treatment led to rapid improvement in symptoms. No surgical intervention was required during the follow-up period. The patient’s neurological status stabilized. Platelet levels decreased following treatment. The hygroma did not recur during the observation period. These findings suggest a non-surgical management option. The case demonstrates a novel treatment approach for this rare condition.

The authors state that subdural hygroma may resolve spontaneously. Surgery is not always necessary in non-emergency cases. The patient’s treatment with hydroxyurea was effective. This is the first reported case of subdural hygroma with thrombocythemia. The findings suggest a potential alternative to surgery. The role of thrombocythemia in this condition remains unclear. Further research may explore the relationship between platelet levels and hygroma formation. The case supports the possibility of conservative management in selected patients.