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A pediatric chronic subdural hematoma after dodgeball head injury

Hao-Kuang Wang1, Han-Jung Chen, Kang Lu

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, 1 E-Da Road, Yan-Chau Shiang, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

Pediatric Emergency Care
|September 15, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Chronic subdural hematoma, a rare condition in children, can result from repeated head injuries, even in sports like dodgeball. This case highlights the importance of considering head trauma history in pediatric patients presenting with severe headaches.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Traumatic Brain Injury
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is typically seen in elderly individuals and is rare in children.
  • Common CSDH symptoms include altered mental status and focal neurological deficits.

Observation:

  • A 9-year-old child presented with intermittent severe headache, nausea, and vomiting.
  • The child had a history of repeated minor head injuries from playing dodgeball.
  • No altered mental state, focal neurological deficits, or evidence of child abuse were noted.

Findings:

  • A rare case of chronic subdural hematoma was diagnosed in a pediatric patient.
  • The CSDH was attributed to repetitive minor head trauma sustained during sports activities.
  • This presentation differed from typical CSDH symptoms in children.

Implications:

  • Repeated minor head impacts, even in non-contact sports, can potentially lead to CSDH in children.
  • Physicians should consider CSDH in pediatric patients with unexplained headaches and a history of head trauma.
  • This case underscores the need for vigilance regarding head injury risks in pediatric sports.

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