Acute posterior fossa epidural hematomas in children
T. J. Arkins, J. E. McLennan, K. R. Winston, R. D. Strand and Y. Suzuki
Epidural hematoma in the posterior fossa is a rare clinical entity
requiring immediate surgical intervention to prevent rapid and fatal
deterioration. This diagnosis should be considered in children with
occipital head trauma who have altered sensorium and evidence of
compression of structures within the posterior fossa. Such a clinical
setting demands close neurologic observation in a facility where contrast
studies and neurosurgical intervention are available. The absence of an
occipital skull fracture or the presence of normal pulse rate and blood
pressure should not influence the decision. Lumbar puncture is absolutely
contraindicated.
