Intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) is the most devastating and disabling type of stroke. Uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) is the most common cause of spontaneous ICH. Recent advances in neuroimaging, organised stroke care, dedicated Neuro-ICUs, medical and surgical management have improved the management of ICH. Early airway protection, control of malignant HTN, urgent reversal of coagulopathy and surgical intervention may increase the chance of survival for patients with severe ICH.
Spontaneous ICH is defined as intraparenchymal bleeding in the absence of trauma or surgery. Common risk factors for spontaneous ICH include HTN, age, history of heavy alcohol, methamphetamine or cocaine use, education at less than a high school level and genetic alleles associated with cerebral amyloid.
ICH is a medical emergency with high risk of morbidity and mortality. Recent advances in early diagnosis and neurocritical care have contributed to improved survival. Continued research into prevention and effective therapy is pivotal in reducing disease burden and improving functional recovery.
