Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Alternate Names : Subdural Hematoma - Chronic, Subdural Hemorrhage - Chronic
DefinitionA chronic subdural hematoma is an "old" collection (several weeks after initial injury) of blood and blood breakdown products between the surface of the brain and its outermost covering (the dura).
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
A subdural hematoma develops when tiny veins that run between the dura and the surface of the brain tear and leak blood. A collection of blood then forms over the surface of the brain. In a chronic subdural collection, the blood which leaks from the veins does so slowly over time. This can happen as a result of a head injury or, less frequently, it can occur spontaneously if the patient is elderly.
Risks include head injury, old age, chronic use of aspirin or blood thinning (anti-coagulant) medication, and chronic heavy alcohol use.
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