Spontaneous subdural haemorrhage from an arachnoid cyst: a case report and literature review

Abstract

We discuss a spontaneous subdural haematoma (SDH) arising from an arachnoid cyst in a healthy adult male, presenting with headache and vomiting. Imaging revealed a large SDH communicating with an arachnoid cyst and intracystic haemorrhage. The patient fully recovered with surgical evacuation. We also discuss the causes of spontaneous SDH, and specific risk factors for bleeding in arachnoid cysts, as well as review the literature on spontaneous SDH from arachnoid cysts – a rare but serious complication.

Keywords:

• Arachnoid cyst
• craniotomy
• haemorrhage
• subdural

Disclosure statement

The authors report no declaration of interest.

Ethical approval

Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for publication of this case report and accompanying images.

Consent

Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for publication of this case report and accompanying images.

Additional information

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.