Patient Data
Note: This case has been tagged as "legacy" as it no longer meets image preparation and/or other case publication guidelines.
Right subdural hematoma with mixed density - the hyperdense (acute) component is seen inferiorly when the hypodense (chronic) component is seen superiorly.
Case Discussion
CT scan through the brain of an elderly patient demonstrates a subdural hemorrhage with acute and chronic components. Note how the acute blood sinks inferiorly (hematocrit effect). A similar appearance can rarely be seen in acute hemorrhage in patients on anticoagulants, where the blood separates into serum and hematocrit rather than clotting.