Subdural haematoma
A subdural haematoma is a collection of blood in the space between the dura
and arachnoid matter of the meninges. It is most often caused by torn, bleeding
veins on the inside of the dura as a result of a blow to the head. Small subdural
hematomas may not be very serious, and the blood can be slowly absorbed over
several weeks. Larger hematomas, however, can gradually enlarge over several
weeks, even though the bleeding has stopped. This enlargement can compress the
brain itself, possibly leading to death if the blood is not drained. The time
between the injury and the appearance of symptoms can vary from less than 48
hours to several weeks, or more. Symptoms appearing in less than 48 hours are
due to an acute subdural hematoma. This type of bleeding is often fatal, and
results from tearing of the venous sinus. If more than two weeks have passed
before symptoms appear, the condition is called a chronic subdural hematoma,
resulting from tearing of the smaller vein. The young and the old are most likely
to experience a chronic condition.