Magnetic resonance imaging of cerebral hemorrhagic stroke.

Despite a traditional perception of reliance on computed tomography and lack of acceptance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detecting acute hemorrhage, MRI appears to be used increasingly in hemorrhagic stroke. This review addresses the MRI findings of acute hemorrhagic stroke obtained using relatively new imaging techniques. These new techniques have resulted in more acute stroke patients undergoing MRI examination. New information about the frequency and appearance of hemorrhage is emerging: for example, approximately 15-26% of cases of acute cerebral infarctions appear to be complicated by intracerebral hemorrhage. The MRI appearances of hemorrhagic transformation of ischemic infarction, as well as acute hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage, are discussed based on clinical, biochemical, and technical aspects.