What initial investigations should be performed in a patient suspected of having an intracerebral haemorrhage?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 22 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Initial investigations for a patient suspected of having an intracerebral haemorrhage should include urgent non-contrast CT imaging of the head. This is the primary investigation to detect acute intracerebral bleeding and other clinically important traumatic brain injuries.

Additional investigations may include clinical assessment to exclude other causes of neurological symptoms such as hypoglycaemia.

Referral to emergency services and urgent review by senior clinicians is essential to confirm diagnosis and initiate management.

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