Spontaneous and iatrogenic dehydration in the elderly alone or in combination with antiplatelet/anticoagulation agents and risk of subdural hematoma

Elizabeth Wirkowski, Jonas DeMuro, Adel Hanna, Jay Yasen, Rajiv Narain, Susan Elcin

Department of Neuroscience, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, USA.
Department of Surgery, Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, USA.

DOI: 10.4236/wjcd.2014.41001                

Abstract

Background and Purpose: To evaluate the role of preadmission conditions, dehydration specifically, in the development of subdural hematoma in the elderly. Methods: Retrospective chart review. Results: The most prevalent pre-admission medical condition was hypertension, followed by atrial fibrillation, CAD, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and cancer. Out of 95 patients, 69 (73%) had features of dehydration, 27% were on diuretics and 28% were on antiplatelet agents and anticoagulation. Conclusions: Elderly population is prone to dehydration. Overzealous use of diuretics especially in combination with anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy can contribute to the development of subdural hematomas, both spontaneous and traumatic.

Keywords

Subdural Hematoma; Diuretics; Aquaporins; Adverse Drug Events; Dehydration

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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