Delayed Epidural Hematoma Demonstrated by Computed Tomography

A case of delayed visualization of an acute parietal epidural hematoma by computed tomography (CT) in a child is presented. The initial CT 2½ hours after injury was negative. After neurological deterioration, a repeat CT scan 8 hours postinjury demonstrated a parietal epidural hematoma and a small cerebellar hematoma. The case demonstrates the need for a high level of vigilance in head trauma patients even in the face of an initially negative CT scan.