A Standardized Anatomical Classification of Intracranial Hemorrhage

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Intracranial hemorrhage (ICrH) is bleeding within the skull, with varied causes and presentations.
• Current ICrH terminology is often ambiguous, hindering consistent clinical and research communication.
• Precise anatomical classification is crucial for understanding ICrH mechanisms and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the ambiguity in current intracranial hemorrhage terminology.
• To propose a harmonized anatomical classification system for ICrH.
• To standardize communication in clinical practice and research regarding brain hemorrhages.

Main Methods:

• Identified six key shortcomings in the current usage of ICrH terminology.
• Developed a proposed harmonized terminology for anatomical classification of intracranial hemorrhages.
• Defined specific terms including intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Main Results:

• Proposed clarifications for intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) and isolated intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).
• Defined intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) as encompassing both IPH and IVH.
• Distinguished between active bleeding (hemorrhage) and blood collection (hematoma), advocating for precise anatomical terms over 'hemorrhagic stroke'.

Conclusions:

• The proposed harmonized terminology aims to standardize communication regarding intracranial hemorrhages.
• Adoption of this terminology will facilitate clearer interpretation and translation of research findings.
• Encourages stroke physicians and researchers to implement the proposed standardized nomenclature.