Background and purpose: Lumbar puncture is a common procedure highly contributive to neurological diagnosis. It can also cause serious adverse side effects including subdural hematoma and intracranial hypotension as illustrated by this case report.
Case report: A 38-year-old women presented severe intracranial hypotension after a lumbar puncture. Magnetic resonance imaging was compatible with intracranial hypotension and revealed an acute subdural hematoma with midline deviation. A first blood patch was unsuccessful. Symptom relief was achieved with a second patch. The patient was, then, discharged but developed recurrent headache subsequent to the transformation from acute to chronic subdural hematoma. Surgical drainage was required. The postoperative imaging and physical examination returned to normal and the patient was discharged with no recurrence.
Conclusion: The serious adverse effects of lumbar puncture is an easy and common medical procedure that must be kept in mind.