Nonaneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Review of Clinical Course and Outcome in Two Hemorrhage Patterns

Summary

Patients with angiographically negative SAH, particularly those with a perimesencephalic pattern of hemorrhage, have a significantly better clinical outcome than patients with a ruptured aneurysm. Patients with the perimesencephalic pattern present with a more gradual onset of headache and a nonfocal neurological examination. Hydrocephalus is rare, and outcome from hemorrhage is excellent in this group. Patients with NASAH can be assured that they are at no increased risk of recurrent hemorrhage, and they may gradually resume all of their usual activities without restriction.

J Neurosci Nurs. 2007;39(6):135-142. © 2007 American Association of Neuroscience Nurses