Spontaneous Atraumatic Subdural Hematoma Related to Methamphetamine Use

Abstract

There are multiple risk factors associated with spontaneous subdural hematoma (SDH), including substance abuse, hypertension, vascular abnormalities, and neoplasms. The illicit drugs typically cited as risk factors for spontaneous SDH are alcohol and cocaine. We report a rare case of spontaneous, significant SDH associated exclusively with methamphetamine. Although it is unclear whether the underlying pathophysiology involves vasculitis, sympathomimetic-induced hypertension, or a combination of both, this case further illustrates the risks of methamphetamine abuse.