E–Pearl of the Week: Duret hemorrhage

September 19, 2012

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September 18, 2012

Duret hemorrhage

Duret hemorrhages are delayed, secondary brainstem hemorrhages that are caused by rapidly descending transtentorial herniation. They are typically found in the lower mesencephalon and ventral pons. Many believe that it is a result of stretching and laceration of perforating branches of the basilar artery, while others believe it may be caused by thrombosis and venous infarction. The outcome is fatal in most cases.

Reference

1. Parizel PM, Makkat S, Jorens PG, et al.  Brainstem hemorrhage in descending transtentorial herniation (Duret hemorrhage).  Intensive Care Med 2002; 28: 85-88.

Submitted by Ganesh Asaithambi, MD

Disclosure: Dr. Asaithambi reports no disclosures.

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