Hemorrhagic Stroke May Be the Sequelae of Brain Tumors

Abstract

Objective: Hemorrhagic stroke is a common neurosurgical emergency caused by multiple pathological conditions. Brain tumors can also present with acute neurodeficits secondary to hemorrhagic stroke. This study as case series was conducted to report the clinical presentation, radiological findings, causes and management of brain tumors presenting as hemorrhagic stroke.
 Materials and Methods: Clinical assessment and radiological investigations were done, including CT brain and MRI brain with contrast. Surgery was done with evacuation of the hematoma and excision of tumor, and the tissue was sent for histopathology. Post operatively patients were shifted to the intensive care unit for monitoring and ventilator support if needed. Adjuvant treatment was guided according to histopathology report.
 Results: Total number of patients who were diagnosed to have a bleed in brain tumor were thirteen (n = 13). There were 6 (46%) males and 7 (54%) females. Mean age was 55 years. Among 13 patients, 4 (31%) patients had metastatic brain tumors and 9 (69%) patients had primary brain tumors. Diagnosis was done on CT brain, MRI brain and confirmed on histopathology of tissue obtained during surgery. Out of 13 patients, 5 (38%) patients were asymptomatic prior to hemorrhage and 8 (62%) patients had neurodeficits before and recent episodes of bleeding, which caused deterioration of neurological state.
 Conclusion: Malignant primary and metastatic brain tumors can present as acute focal deficits due to brain hemorrhage. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, radiological features and histopathology.