Subdural empyema mimicking subacute subdural hematoma on CT imaging

We report a case of a 35-year-old male who was treated with craniectomy, subdural empyema evacuation, and subsequent intravenous antibiotic therapy. The patient presented with what appeared to be signs of a subacute subdural hematoma on imaging. A literature review was conducted to illustrate the similarities and differences in computed tomography (CT) findings for both subdural empyema, and subdural hematoma. High clinical suspicion, with prompt and appropriate imaging, and intervention are key to decrease the likelihood of neurological sequelae in the presence of subdural empyema.