Differential Diagnosis for Brain Herniating
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cerebral edema: This is the most common cause of brain herniation, often resulting from traumatic brain injury, stroke, or tumors. It leads to increased intracranial pressure, causing the brain to shift across structures within the skull.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Bleeding into the space surrounding the brain can increase intracranial pressure, leading to herniation. This is often due to the rupture of an aneurysm.
- Intracerebral hemorrhage: Bleeding directly into the brain tissue can cause rapid expansion and increase in intracranial pressure, potentially leading to herniation.
- Brain tumor: Both primary and metastatic tumors can cause increased intracranial pressure by occupying space and potentially bleeding, leading to herniation.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Meningitis: Infection of the meninges can lead to increased intracranial pressure and, if not promptly treated, can result in brain herniation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
- Encephalitis: Similar to meningitis, inflammation of the brain tissue itself can increase intracranial pressure and lead to herniation if not promptly addressed.
- Hydrocephalus: Accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain can increase intracranial pressure, potentially leading to herniation. This condition can be acute or chronic.
- Rare diagnoses
- Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: A blood clot in the venous sinuses of the brain can lead to increased intracranial pressure and potentially cause brain herniation. This condition is less common but can be fatal if not recognized and treated.
- Brain abscess: A collection of pus in the brain, usually as a result of infection, can increase intracranial pressure and lead to herniation. It is less common than other causes but requires urgent treatment.