The Role of Steroid in Managing Chronic Subdural Hematoma

Authors

Weeda Nejrabi, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Neurosurgery

Advisor

Dr. Nancy Reid

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to discuss available data on the use of steroid for managing chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) and to demonstrate the need for further research on this topic.

Method: A search of literature was conducted through PubMed as the primary source, using MeSH terms; “chronic”, “subdural”, “ hematoma”, “glucocorticoids”, “steroid”. The search was further narrowed to include publications older than 10 years, expand to randomized and non-randomized controlled studies and to incorporate the articles present in English language. The search was extended to include older publications, because otherwise the number of available articles were limited. The articles were chosen based on the review of their abstracts and their relevance to the subject of study.

Results: It was found that there is not sufficient data in the literature with large randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies to determine steroid as an alternative or as a safe adjunct to neurosurgical intervention for patients with CSDH. However, several non-randomized studies and observational studies have shown promising results.

Conclusion: Surgical intervention remains a common practice for the treatment of CSDH despite available data demonstrating beneficial effects of steroid as both monotherapy and as adjunct to surgery. Future RCT studies are needed to further investigate its benefits and limitations.

Recommended Citation

Nejrabi W. The Role of Steroid in Managing Chronic Subdural Hematoma. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2020; 2(3).