The evaluation of epidural hematoma begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with an epidural hematoma may include:

• Large scalp hematoma
• Skull deformity:
• A dent or depressed area on the skull (depressed skull fracture)
• Visible skull fracture through a scalp wound
• Abnormal eye muscle exam
• Abnormal eye pupil exam
• Confusion
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty walking
• Lethargy:
• A condition of excessive sleepiness or drowsiness.
• Memory loss
• Numbness in one arm or leg:
• Arm numbness (unilateral)
• Leg numbness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg numbness (unilateral)
• Weakness in one arm or leg:
• Arm weakness (unilateral)
• Leg weakness (unilateral)
• Arm and leg weakness (unilateral)
• Papilledema:
• Evidence of increased brain pressure on eye exam

The diagnosis of epidural hematoma must be confirmed through testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate epidural hematoma include:

• CT scanning of the brain:
• Usually shows an acute bleed
• MRI scanning of the brain
• Skull x-rays

For more information:

• Subdural hematoma evaluation