What condition is commonly caused by skull fractures?

Epidural hematoma is a condition that is commonly associated with skull fractures, particularly those that involve the temporal bone, where the middle meningeal artery is located. When a skull fracture occurs in this area, it can lead to a tear in the middle meningeal artery, allowing blood to accumulate between the dura mater and the skull. This accumulation can create pressure on the brain and result in significant neurological symptoms.

The nature of the epidural hematoma is often described as a "lucid interval," where the patient may initially be conscious and alert, only to deteriorate rapidly as the hematoma expands and puts more pressure on the brain. This contrasts with other conditions like subdural hematomas, which are more commonly associated with venous bleeding and may not necessarily require a skull fracture to occur.

In the context of head trauma, recognizing epidural hematomas due to skull fractures is crucial, as they typically require prompt surgical intervention to relieve the pressure and prevent permanent brain damage.