Final answer:
A subacute subdural hematoma is a type of brain injury that results from a collection of blood between the brain and skull, leading to increased intracranial pressure and various neurological symptoms over time, with severe cases potentially being fatal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristics of a subacute subdural hematoma include a collection of blood between the brain and the inner layers of the skull that typically occurs within days or weeks following an injury such as a strong blow to the head. The pterion, located on the lateral side of the head, can fracture and damage an underlying artery, which may result in hematoma formation with subsequent pressure exerted on the brain. Symptoms of a subacute subdural hematoma may not be immediately apparent but can include a wide range of neurological impairments.
As the hematoma progresses, it can cause brain disfigurement, which is apparent when, for instance, the lateral ventricles are squeezed into the opposite hemisphere as depicted in Figure 16.3, or when a CT scan reveals hemorrhage within the brain, such as an intracerebral hemorrhage within the parietal lobe. Notably, untreated hematomas may lead to severe outcomes, including death, thus timely medical intervention is critical for individuals with head injuries.
It is important to distinguish a subacute subdural hematoma from other types of head injuries and strokes, such as hemorrhagic stroke and concussions, both of which involve blood vessel damage and can present with similar symptoms but may have different underlying mechanisms and degrees of severity.