Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage Webster, TX

What is Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage?

Intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) refers to bleeding that occurs within the brain tissue itself, rather than in the spaces surrounding the brain (such as the subarachnoid or subdural spaces). The term "parenchyma" refers to the functional tissue of an organ, so intraparenchymal hemorrhage specifically involves bleeding within the functional tissue of the brain.

A hemorrhage or bleeding from a ruptured blood vessel in the brain disrupts normal blood flow and subsequently deprives the brain of oxygen. Consequently, the brain cells can die, which damages the affected nerves and the related functions they control as well. Spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage accounts for less than 20 percent of stroke cases, but it is connected with the highest mortality rates of all forms of stroke.

Intraparenchymal hemorrhage can be categorized as primary or secondary, depending on the cause. Primary IPH accounts for about 80 percent of cases and occurs when there is a spontaneous rupture of damaged arteries, whereas secondary IPH occurs as a result of an underlying condition that increases the likelihood of hemorrhage.

Causes of Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage

Intraparenchymal hemorrhage can have several causes, and it often results from the rupture of blood vessels within the brain tissue. Some common causes of intraparenchymal hemorrhage include:

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Chronic high blood pressure is a significant risk factor for intraparenchymal hemorrhage. Persistent hypertension can weaken the walls of small blood vessels in the brain, making them more susceptible to rupture.
Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA): This is a condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid protein in the blood vessel walls of the brain. CAA can lead to vessel fragility and an increased risk of intraparenchymal hemorrhage, particularly in the elderly.
Trauma: Head injuries, such as those sustained in falls, accidents, or physical assaults, can result in intraparenchymal hemorrhage. The forceful impact can cause blood vessels to rupture within the brain tissue.
Vascular Malformations: Abnormalities in the blood vessels, such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) or cavernous malformations, can increase the risk of intraparenchymal hemorrhage. These malformations disrupt the normal structure of blood vessels in the brain.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: In some cases, intraparenchymal hemorrhage is a subtype of stroke, known as hemorrhagic stroke. This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding within the brain tissue.
Coagulopathies: Disorders affecting blood clotting, such as hemophilia or certain medications that interfere with clotting mechanisms, can increase the risk of bleeding, including intraparenchymal hemorrhage.
Tumors: Brain tumors, both primary and metastatic, can disrupt blood vessels within the brain and cause intraparenchymal hemorrhage. The bleeding is often associated with the increased pressure caused by the growing tumor.
Infections: Certain infections affecting the brain, such as brain abscesses or vascular infections, can lead to intraparenchymal hemorrhage.
Drug Abuse: The use of certain drugs, particularly stimulants like cocaine or amphetamines, can increase blood pressure and contribute to intraparenchymal hemorrhage.
Aneurysms: While aneurysms are more commonly associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage, they can also rupture and cause bleeding within the brain tissue, leading to intraparenchymal hemorrhage.

Signs and Symptoms of Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage

Intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) can present with a range of signs and symptoms, and the severity can vary depending on factors such as the location and extent of the bleeding. Common signs and symptoms of intraparenchymal hemorrhage may include:

Sudden and severe headache
Seizures
Nausea and vomiting
Lethargy
Decreased alertness
Altered consciousness
Sensory defects, such as numbness of the face and limbs
Focal neurological deficits, such as speech, vision, and hearing problems

Diagnosis of Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage

If your physician suspects you have an intraparenchymal hemorrhage based on your physical exam and symptoms, they may likely order tests, such as:

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans are often the initial imaging modality used for the rapid assessment of intraparenchymal hemorrhage. A CT scan can provide detailed images of the brain and is particularly effective in identifying acute bleeding. The scan can reveal the location, size, and characteristics of the hematoma.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI may be used to obtain more detailed images of the brain and to assess the underlying cause of the hemorrhage. While CT scans are often preferred in emergency settings due to their rapid results, MRI can offer additional information, especially in cases where the bleeding occurred some time ago.
Cerebral Angiography: This imaging technique involves injecting contrast dye into the blood vessels of the brain and taking X-ray images. It is used to visualize the blood vessels and identify abnormalities such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), or other vascular lesions that may have contributed to the intraparenchymal hemorrhage.
Blood Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to assess coagulation parameters, such as prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and platelet count, to identify any coagulopathies that could contribute to bleeding.
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): While not routinely performed in cases of intraparenchymal hemorrhage, a lumbar puncture may be considered in certain situations to rule out other causes of neurological symptoms, such as infection or subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Treatment of Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage

The treatment of intraparenchymal hemorrhage involves a combination of supportive care, medical management, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. The specific approach to treatment depends on factors such as the underlying cause of the hemorrhage, the location and size of the hematoma, and the patient's overall health. Some of the key aspects involved in the treatment of intraparenchymal hemorrhage include:

Airway, Breathing, and Circulation (ABC) Management: In cases where an individual becomes unresponsive as a result of the hemorrhage, airway management is crucial to mitigate the risk of secondary injury from aspiration, excessive carbon dioxide in the blood (hypercapnia), and severely reduced oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxemia). ABC management focuses on ensuring the patient has a patent airway, adequate breathing, and stable circulation.
Blood Pressure Management: If the intraparenchymal hemorrhage is associated with hypertension, efforts are made to maintain adequate blood pressure levels. However, excessively lowering blood pressure may compromise cerebral perfusion, so a careful balance is needed.
Management of Intracranial Pressure (ICP): Maintaining normal intracranial pressure is critical in individuals with IPH. Hyperosmolar agents like mannitol or hypertonic saline may be used to reduce cerebral edema and lower intracranial pressure.

Surgical Intervention: In certain cases, particularly when the hematoma is large or causing a significant mass effect, surgical evacuation may be considered. This may involve neurosurgical procedures such as craniotomy where a section of the skull is surgically removed to evacuate/remove a brain bleed or minimally invasive techniques such as small incisions, burr holes, and insertion of a catheter into the clot for drainage may be employed to remove the clot and relieve pressure on surrounding brain tissue.

Treatment of Underlying Causes: Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the intraparenchymal hemorrhage is crucial. This may involve managing coagulopathies, treating infections, or addressing vascular abnormalities such as aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

Seizure Prophylaxis: Antiepileptic medications may be administered to prevent seizures, which can be a complication of intraparenchymal hemorrhage.

Rehabilitation: After the acute phase of treatment, patients may undergo rehabilitation to address neurological deficits and optimize functional recovery. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy may be part of the rehabilitation plan.

Symptomatic and Supportive Care: Medications may be administered to manage symptoms such as pain, nausea, or fever. Nutritional support may be provided if necessary.