This discussion focuses on recent reports relevant to improved understanding and future directions in the management of intracerebral
hemorrhage (ICH). Prevention is possible with adequate treatment of hypertension; microbleeds, apolipoprotein genotype, and
cholesterol treatment have been examined in relation to ICH risk. Hematoma products, matrix metalloproteinases, inflammatory
markers, and means to attenuate injury have also received attention. The multifaceted character of perihematomal edema has
been further defined but evidence for perihematomal ischemia remains elusive. New data on acute blood pressure reinforces
the need for a clinical trial. With the lack of efficacy found in the International Surgical Trial in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
(ISTICH), a landmark surgical trial, emphasis is shifting to minimally invasive and catheter/ thrombolytic-based technologies
for clot evacuation. On the medical side, activated factor VII has been shown to control hemorrhage growth. Looking forward,
stem cell therapies for ICH are under investigation and some outcome studies are shedding new rays of hope.