Remote intracerebral hemorrhage following craniotomy for an intracerebral hematoma: A case report

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Remote intracerebral hemorrhage (RICH) is a rare yet highly consequential complication that can occur after a craniotomy performed for the evacuation of an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). In this case report, we present the clinical details of a 74‐year‐old female patient who underwent a supratentorial craniotomy to address an ICH, and subsequently developed RICH. A 74‐year‐old woman was admitted to our department with a severe headache, onset of dysarthria, and left‐sided brachio‐crural hemiparesis. The patient had a history of arterial hypertension and a previous cerebral ischemia incident 2 years prior, potentially due to cerebral amyloid angiopathy. Despite the immediate surgical intervention and intensive care, she succumbed to respiratory distress after developing a contralateral ICH. RICH following craniotomy for an intracerebral hematoma is a rare but potentially devastating complication. Close monitoring, prompt recognition of neurological deterioration, and timely intervention are imperative to optimize patient outcomes. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and risk factors associated with this complication, allowing for improved prevention and management strategies in the future.

Keywords

• amyloid angiopathy
• arterial hypertension
• craniotomy
• intracerebral hematoma
• remote intracerebral hemorrhage