Xanthochromia

Xanthochromia refers to the yellowish appearance of cerebrospinal fluid that occurs due to the presence of bilirubin, a breakdown product of hemoglobin. This condition is typically associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage, a type of stroke caused by bleeding into the space surrounding the brain.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Xanthochromia is most commonly caused by a subarachnoid hemorrhage. This can occur due to a ruptured brain aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation, or head injury. Less commonly, xanthochromia can be caused by severe jaundice, certain metabolic disorders, or a reaction to certain drugs.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of xanthochromia is typically made through a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap. During this procedure, a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is removed from the lower back and examined under a microscope. If the fluid appears yellow, this is indicative of xanthochromia. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause of the condition.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for xanthochromia focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve surgery to repair a ruptured aneurysm, medication to control symptoms, or other interventions as appropriate.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals with xanthochromia varies widely and depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In cases where the condition is caused by a subarachnoid hemorrhage, the prognosis can be poor, as this is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. However, with prompt diagnosis and treatment, many individuals can recover.