Brain 11-13

Question 1

dura matter

Answer 1

is a thick, tough and durable membrane composed of dense fibrous connective tissue. The dura mater separates into two layers, a superficial layer called the periosteal layer, and a deep layer called the meningeal layer.

Question 2

arachnoid matter

Answer 2

is directly under the dura mater. The two membranes are not physically connected and there is a space (more like a virtual space) between the two. The arachnoid mater is a very thin and transparent membrane that lies on top of cerebral spinal fluid directly inferior to the membrane. the arachnoid membrane together with the cerebral spinal fluid helps to cushion the central nervous system and fits like a loose sac over it

Question 3

pia matter

Answer 3

is a very delicate membrane that adheres to the surface of the brain and spinal cord, following the contours (gyri and sulci) of the brain. The cerebral spinal fluid of the central nervous system sits on top of the pia mater

Question 4

*Epidural hemorrhages

Answer 4

occur between the dura mater and the skull and are usually very rapid because the bleeds come from arteries that are high pressure vessels. This bleeding results in a hematoma, which strips the dura membrane off the skull as it expands, causing intense headaches. The most common cause of epidural bleeds are the result of a blow to the skull and can be fatal if left untreated.

Question 5

*Subdural hemorrhages

Answer 5

occur between the dura mater and the brain. these result from tears in the veins that cross the subdural space in response to a head injury, especially rotational or linear forces. Subdural bleeds are classic injuries found in shaken baby syndrome and severe whiplash.

Question 6

Acute hematomas

Answer 6

develop rapidly and are the most severe with a mortality rate of 60 to 80%.

Question 7

Subacute hematomas

Answer 7

fall into the same category as acute hematoma, although slightly less severe.

Question 8

Chronic subdural hematomas

Answer 8

develop over a period of days to weeks and often result from minor head trauma (like a concussion). Symptoms of subdual hemorrhage typically have a slower onset than epidural bleeds because the bleeding comes from veins instead of arteries.

Question 9

*Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Answer 9

occur in the area between the arachnoid membrane and the pia mater that surrounds the brain. The bleeding may occur by spontaneous rupture or as a result of head injury. The most common symptom is called the thunderclap headache, or one that develops immediately within seconds and feels like a kick in the head.

Question 10

*Intracerebral hemorrhages

Answer 10

occur within the brain tissue itself and usually involve very small blood vessels. This type of bleed bay be caused by trauma or spontaneous rupture. Symptoms are associated with the functional area of the brain that is experiencing the trauma. 2nd most common cause of stroke which is increased by high blood pressure and diabetes.