Debate – does a reversible penumbra exist in intracerebral haemorrhage?

Abstract

Intracerebral haemorrhage is a devastating condition lacking effective therapies, with an uncertain role for surgery in many. Early research described an ischaemic penumbra around the haematoma, representing an area of potential therapeutic intervention. This article discusses the evidence for and against the existence of an ischaemic penumbra in ICH, with particular reference to recent imaging studies.

Key words:

• Intracerebral haemorrhage
• ischaemic penumbra
• perihaematomal hypoperfusion
• metabolic derangement
• imaging
• microdialysis

Declaration of interest:

The author reports no conflicts of interest. The author alone was responsible for the content and writing of the paper.