What is the common name for a hematoma located beneath the dura mater?

A hematoma located beneath the dura mater is commonly referred to as a subdural hematoma. This condition occurs when there is bleeding between the dura mater, which is the outermost layer of the meninges covering the brain, and the next layer, the arachnoid mater. Subdural hematomas can result from head injuries, particularly from acceleration or deceleration forces that cause the brain to move within the skull, leading to the tearing of the veins that bridge the subdural space.

In clinical settings, subdural hematomas often present with symptoms such as headaches, confusion, and other neurological deficits, depending on the size and location of the hematoma. They can be acute, occurring shortly after trauma, or chronic, which may develop over a longer period, particularly in older adults or those on anticoagulant therapy. Understanding the nature and location of a hematoma is crucial for effective diagnosis and management, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that a subdural hematoma specifically refers to a collection of blood that occurs under the dura mater.