A 54-year-old woman presents with sudden onset of severe occipital headache, vomiting and neck stiffness. Neurological examination is normal. CT head ...

Question

A 54-year-old woman presents with sudden onset of severe occipital headache, vomiting and neck stiffness. Neurological examination is normal. CT head performed within 2 hours of onset is normal. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar puncture to look for xanthochromia

Answer

Discharge with reassurance

Answer

Start high-dose steroids

Answer

MRI brain without contrast

Answer

Start prophylactic Aspirin and discharge

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Subarachnoid haemorrhage

A 54-year-old woman presents with sudden onset of severe occipital headache, vomiting and neck stiffness. Neurological examination is normal. CT head performed within 2 hours of onset is normal. What is the most appropriate next step?