CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the most common cause of a subdural hematoma?

1. Infection

2. Trauma

3. Spontaneous rupture of blood vessels

4. Blood disorders

The correct answer is: Trauma

The most common cause of a subdural hematoma is trauma. Subdural hematomas typically occur when there is a sudden acceleration-deceleration force or direct impact to the head, leading to the tearing of bridging veins in the brain's subdural space. This results in bleeding and the formation of a hematoma. The impact can be due to falls, car accidents, or other forms of injury, particularly in elderly individuals or those with a history of alcohol abuse, who may be more susceptible to falls. Traumatic injuries account for the majority of cases, as the force of trauma disrupts the delicate structures in the brain, leading to bleeding in areas such as the subdural space. Other options, like infection, spontaneous rupture of blood vessels, or blood disorders, can lead to different types of hemorrhage or hematomas, but they do not occur as frequently as those resulting from trauma. This understanding underscores the significance of evaluating the mechanism of injury in patients presenting with neurological symptoms or signs that could indicate the presence of a subdural hematoma.