Cell death starts early after subarachnoid hemorrhage

► Caspase-3 activates and DNA fragmentation begins in endothelial cells and in neurons within 10 min after SAH. ► Only one third of cells positive for active caspease-3 undergo apoptosis. ► Necrosis (Fluoro-Jade B staining) begins 1 h after SAH. ► Apoptosis and necrotic cell death occurs concurrently in brain after SAH. ► These results emphasize the importance of early management to limit injury after SAH.