Acute high-altitude cerebral edema can occur in an unacclimatised individual on exposure
to high altitudes and sometimes it can be fatal. Here we have described the neuroimaging
features of a patient who suffered from fatal high altitude cerebral edema. Available
literature is reviewed. Probable pathogenesis is discussed. The risk of acute mountain
sickness is reported up to 25% in individuals who ascend to an altitude of 3500 meter
and in more than 50% subjects at an altitude of 6000 meter. The lack of availability
of advanced imaging facilities at such a higher altitude makes imaging of such condition
a less described entity.
Keywords
Cerebral edema - CT scan - high altitude - microhemorrhages - magnetic resonance imaging
