Critical care of intracerebral and subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Overview

The acute management of primary intracerebral or aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage requires a comprehensive approach involving stabilization of the patient, surgical intervention, and continued intensive care treatment of medical and neurologic complications. The are several causes of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), including hypertension, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, sympathomimetic drugs, and coagulopathies. More recently, use of thrombolytic agents in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke has increased the risk of ICH. Treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage is based on blood pressure control, and, in selected cases, surgical evacuation of clot. Patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage may experience rebleeding, symptomatic vasospasm, or hydrocephalus. Medical management in the intensive care unit with careful attention to fluid and electrolyte balance, nutrition, cardiopulmonary monitoring, and close observation for changes in the neurologic exam is vital. This review examines the diagnosis and intensive care management of patients with intracerebral or subarachnoid hemorrhage, and reviews some of the newer therapies for treatment of these disorders.