Brainstem compression in a child with acute progressive brain edema following trauma

Computed tomography findings in a case of acute, traumatic, progressive, and irreversible edema of the brain are described. Subsequent development of obstructive hydrocephalus, following previous ventricular collapse, without resolution of the edema is suggested as a sign of brainstem compression, obliteration of the aqueduct, and deterioration leading to eventual brain death.