Neurologic Emergencies on Computed Tomography of the Head

The purpose of this article is to provide the reader, a seasoned radiologist, a budding resident, or a curious practitioner, the background necessary to accurately and swiftly interpret a head computed tomography in the emergency setting. At the very least, being able to generate a reasonable differential diagnosis is the aim and will be accomplished by describing not only features of classic neurologic emergencies but also the possible traps to which one may fall prey. Images will be used to illustrate cases, and the reader will be instructed when other imaging modalities may be required to clarify diagnoses.