European journal of radiology
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The aim of the study is to prove, retrospectively, that it is unlikely that the computerized tomography (CT) diagnosis of subarachnoid haemorrhage (SH) accompanies the CT diagnosis of generalized brain edema. A total of 100 comatose patients underwent CT of the brain. Of this number, 42 underwent an enhanced CT scan. ⋯ There was no bloody or xanthochromic CSF in any of the 26 lumbar punctures performed. In the enhanced CT scans, there was poor or no filling of the lateral sinuses. The compression of the lateral sinuses by the edematous brain tissue most probably results in their stenosis or obstruction due to disturbed brain venous drainage which can mimic CT findings of SH.