Diagnostic imaging for intracerebral hemorrhage

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an excellent tool for the diagnosis and evaluation of intracerebral hemorrhage with its unique specificity to hemoglobin degradation products in different stages. Computed tomography (CT) remains the diagnostic test of choice in the setting of acute intracerebral hemorrhage because of its exquisite sensitivity and specificity for small amounts of intracerebral hemorrhage (although there is emerging evidence that MRI may be as sensitive as CT). The effects of the biochemical evolution of intracerebral hemorrhage on the temporal MRI signal changes are described. This article discusses imaging features of the common causes of intracerebral hemorrhage.