Location of hemorrhage with nontraumatic acute subdural hematoma due to ruptured microaneurysm

Nontraumatic acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) may be caused by rupture of a microaneurysm of a cortical artery. In some cases, microaneurysms may have been caused by earlier trauma. Although it is difficult to detect microaneurysms on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) angiography or digital subtraction angiography, it may be suspected based on the plain CT scan results and the clinical course.

We experienced three cases presumed to be ASDH due to rupture of a microaneurysm. Plain CT scan showed that the midline shift was smaller than the hematoma thickness, and we judged from the clinical course that there was no trauma immediately before the onset. All three patients had decreased consciousness after arrival and underwent craniotomy for hematoma removal. The source of hemorrhage was in the distal part of the cortical artery, and a microaneurysm was found. In one case, histopathological examination was performed, and traumatic pseudoaneurysm was diagnosed. The postoperative course was good in all three cases.

If nontraumatic ASDH is suspected, the source of hemorrhage may be located more distally to the middle cerebral artery than in traumatic ASDH; hence, extensive craniotomy is required to search for the location of hemorrhage.