Volume 18, Issue 4, Pages 205 – 264 (2019)

MR-Brain Causing Confusion

This is a T2 weighted image (T2WI). In T2WI compartments filled with fluid appear brighter (as is the case of the CSF in the lateral ventricles). On the contrary, tissues with a high fat content appear as dark. This T2WI demonstrates layering of debris (figure 2- marked red star) in the occipital horn of the lateral ventricles. In this particular patient, the complete MRI report additionally demonstrated that the debris did not show a high T1 signal, demonstrated diffusion restriction, and a high FLAIR sequence. There was also restricting material observed in the fourth ventricle and the sylvian fissures bilaterally. There were no parenchymal changes or pathological contrast enhancements within the brain tissue. Whilst this appearance could represent blood, the appearance of the debrinous material itself was more in keeping with infective/pus material within the ventricles suggestive of ventriculitis.

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Spontaneous Thyroid Haemorrhage: A Cause of Upper Airway Obstruction

Background: Spontaneous thyroid haemorrhage is a very rare condition that is potentially life-threatening. We report an unusual case of spontaneous thyroid haemorrhage leading to airway compromise requiring urgent intervention. We highlight key clinical findings and management steps with comparison to similar cases in the literature.

Case Summary: An adult male presented with sudden anterior neck swelling and bruises on his neck and chest with hoarseness and dysphagia. Clinical assessment and CT scan revealed a thyroid haemorrhage with laryngopharyngeal, neck and chest haematoma. He was intubated for airway protection and given intravenous steroids and antibiotics. He was extubated well after 3 days.

Conclusion: Careful prompt management of the patient’s airway is of vital importance as worsening haematoma can lead to rapid airway compromise. Acute physicians should be aware of the clinical signs of thyroid haemorrhage, as this rare condition may present to the acute medical take.

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