Head CT

Head CT > Stroke > Diffuse Hypodensity

Diffuse Hypodensity and Sulcal Effacement

Diffuse hypodensity and sulcal effacement is the most consistent sign of infarction. Extensive parenchymal hypodensity is associated with poor outcome. If this sign is present in greater than 50% of the middle cerebral artery territory there is, on average, an 85% mortality rate. Hypodensity in greater than one-third of the middle cerebral artery territory is generally considered to be a contra-indication to thrombolytic therapy.

Hypodensity and sulcal effacement (arrowheads)
in the right middle cerebral artery distribution.