Temporary alopecia after subarachnoid haemorrhage

Primary endovascular intervention is increasingly the first choice of treatment for cerebral aneurysms, particularly for those with complex anatomy in the posterior circulation. However, their clinical management and follow-up continue to be predominantly in the hands of neurosurgeons. In this report, the development of alopecia following the coiling of posterior circulation aneurysms is described. The alopecia was transient and lasted for approximately 6 months, and occurred in the occipital and suboccipital regions of the scalp. This report aims to highlight this condition, which has not been previously reported in the neurosurgical literature. The potential hazards of irradiation should be borne in mind while carrying out complex endovascular procedures. The patient should be counselled and all necessary steps undertaken to limit radiation exposure.