A subdural hematoma occurs in which space?

• A. Between the skull and the dura mater
• B. Between the brain and the dura mater
• C. Between the dura mater and the arachnoid membrane
• D. Within the ventricles

Answer: (C)

The question is about where a subdural hematoma forms in the layers of the meninges. A subdural hematoma occurs in the space between the dura mater and the arachnoid membrane—the subdural space. This bleeding is typically venous, from tearing bridging veins that cross this space, often after head trauma or in people with brain atrophy. Because venous bleeding accumulates more slowly, symptoms may develop gradually over hours to days.

In contrast, the epidural space lies between the skull and the dura, usually with arterial bleeding and a faster course; the subarachnoid space is between the arachnoid membrane and the pia mater and contains cerebrospinal fluid and vessels; and the ventricles are internal CSF-filled cavities within the brain.