Brain Epidural Hematoma

A subdural or epidural hematoma (EDH) is a collection of blood that occurs between the dura mater and the skull. Most often, a fractured skull is at blame. This causes bleeding in the brain. A strong headache and unconsciousness are two of the symptoms. This is potentially a fatal disorder requiring immediate surgical intervention.

Between your skull bone and brain tissue are three layers of membrane (called meninges). The meninges line your brain and spinal cord to keep them safe. The meninges’ outermost layer is called the dura mater. In the case of an EDH, blood is seeping from a hole in the dura mater from a ruptured blood vessel, most often an artery but sometimes occasionally a vein. This leak of blood causes a pocket to develop, which then protrudes and presses on your brain. Increased brain damage may result from this additional pressure.

Spinal EDH refers to bleeding that occurs inside the spinal column.

Head and spine CT or MRI scans are used to identify epidural hematoma (EDH). A hematoma in the head manifests as a swollen, solid mass that displaces the brain in its socket. If a non-traumatic cause, such as an arteriovenous malformation, is suspected, angiography may be required.

Your blood may be tested to identify medical conditions that cause abnormal coagulation of the blood or other risk factors that may increase the likelihood of bleeding.