Central Nervous System Complications of Hemorrhagic and Coagulation Disorders

Abstract

Hematologic disorders affect the central nervous system in a variety of ways, producing a wide range of neurologic disturbances. Early identification of these complications allows for early intervention and better outcome. Cross-sectional imaging plays an important role in identifying brain abnormalities and helps the clinician in deciding appropriate course of action and treatment. This article discuss in short the basics of hemostasis including the coagulation cascade and the application of basic laboratory tests in evaluation of hematologic function. Imaging features of various neurologic disorders associated with these clotting and bleeding diatheses are discussed in detail with illustrations.

Keywords: CT; Hemorrhagic and coagulation disorders; MRI; Neurologic complications.