Perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage

Last revised by Mohamed Saber on 21 Dec 2022

Perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage (PMSAH) is a distinct pattern of non-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) centered on the basal cisterns around the midbrain with an excellent prognosis.

Perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage is rare with an incidence of 0.5 in 100 000 in adults 4. PMSAH represents 5-10% of all subarachnoid hemorrhages and ~33% of all non-aneurysmal SAH 3,4.

As per subarachnoid hemorrhage

95% of cases of perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage have a normal cerebral angiogram and the source of bleeding is not identified; the cause is thought to be a venous bleed. This is referred to as non-aneurysmal perimesencephalic SAH.

The other 5% of cases are due to a vertebrobasilar aneurysm and the prognosis is worse 1,2. Rare causes include arteriovenous malformation, dural arteriovenous fistula, trauma and vascular tumors 4

Perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage has been defined as subarachnoid hemorrhage on CT within three days of symptom onset 4:

There are specific criteria for non-aneurysmal perimesencephalic SAH, which, some have argued, negate the need for DSA if fulfilled with a negative CTA 5:

  • SAH in perimesencephalic cisterns anterior to midbrain
  • if SAH extension into the anterior interhemispheric fissure, not extending into all of the fissure
  • if SAH extension into the medial Sylvian fissures, not extending into the lateral fissure
  • if layering interventricular extension, no frank intraventricular hemorrhage
  • no intraparenchymal hemorrhage

CTA is recommended for perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage to investigate for possible aneurysmal cause. Overall, PMSAH has an excellent prognosis with better outcomes compared to aneurysmal SAH 1,2,4

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.