Image in toxicology: Pseudo-subarachnoid hemorrhage in a case of severe valproic acid poisoning

Abstract

Pseudo-subarachnoid hemorrhage (PSAH) is a false-positive finding on cranial computed tomography (CT) in patients with cerebral edema. Its appearance on CT resembles subarachnoid hemorrhage despite the absence of subarachnoid blood. We report the finding of PSAH in a case of massive valproic acid overdose.

Keywords:

• Valproic acid
• Pseudo-subarachnoid hemorrhage
• Poisoning