Blood-fluid level on computed tomography head: a sign of warfarin-associated intraparenchymal hemorrhage

Am J Emerg Med. 2012 Nov;30(9):2079.e1-2. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2011.10.015. Epub 2011 Dec 26.

Abstract

“Blood/fluid level” represents interface between the plasma and sedimented blood and is defined radiologically as presence of area of low computed tomography (CT) attenuation above and high CT attenuation below a discrete line of separation in an area of intraparenchymal hemorrhage. It is a rare finding seen in association with large clot volume of intraparenchymal hemorrhage. We present a case of warfarin-related intraparenchymal hemorrhage presenting with a classic sign of “blood/fluid level” on CT head with small clot volume.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Brain / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / chemically induced
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neuroimaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Warfarin / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Warfarin