Question

A 68-year-old woman presents with sudden severe headache described as "the worst of her life", with vomiting and photophobia. She experienced a brief loss of consciousness at onset. Neurological examination is normal. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?

Accepted Answer

Urgent CT head without contrast

Answer

Lumbar puncture in the emergency department without imaging

Answer

Elective MRI brain in 2 weeks

Answer

Carotid Doppler ultrasound

Answer

EEG

Practice question

A 68-year-old woman presents with sudden severe headache described as "the worst of her life", with vomiting and photophobia. She experienced a brief loss of consciousness at onset. Neurological examination is normal. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?