A 65-year-old on warfarin presents to the emergency department 4 days after a minor fall. He has progressive confusion and right-sided weakness. CT head shows a crescent-shaped hypodense collection over the left cerebral convexity crossing suture lines. What is the diagnosis?
- A Chronic subdural haematoma ✓
- B Acute subdural haematoma
- C Acute extradural haematoma
- D Subarachnoid haemorrhage
Correct answer: A. Chronic subdural haematoma
Explanation
Chronic subdural haematoma classically presents days to weeks after minor trauma, especially in the elderly or anticoagulated patients. CT shows a crescent-shaped (not biconvex) hypodense collection that crosses suture lines, distinguishing it from extradural haematoma which is biconvex and limited by sutures. The lenticular hyperdense pattern is acute extradural.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.