A Multidisciplinary Evaluation of Traumatic Brain Injury: Early Predictors of Outcome
Abstract
This is the final report of a follow-up study of 180 subjects with Mild TBI who were treated at a Level I Trauma Center. The goal of the study was: 1) to describe the natural history of Mild TBI and 2) to identify factors that best predict long term sequelae. Most symptoms increased within 3-10 day post-injury decreased again by 3 months. Although physical symptoms had the highest prevalence, most returned to pre-injury levels by 3 months. Emotional and cognitive symptoms, however, remained elevated. Overall, approximately 36% of patients still reported four or more symptoms (defined as post-concussive syndrome, PCS), even one year after their injury. Post-injury emotional symptoms were the strongest predictors of PCS. Also, women and older patients were at higher risk of PCS. Balance problems, as assessed by balance testing, were associated with noise sensitivity, perhaps indicative of vestibular problems. In addition, while not all patients had balance testing, due to the presence of other injuries, noise sensitivity was significantly associated with subjects inability to return to work or school at one year post-injury. The simple reaction time measure from ANAM did not predict PCS. There was no association between post-injury S100 levels and long term sequelae.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA471519
Entities
People
- Patricia C. Dischinger
Organizations
- University of Maryland, Baltimore