What is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

1. Mayo Clinic. Patient Care and Health Information. Diseases and Conditions. Traumatic Brain Injury. Definition. Available at:http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/basics/definition/con-20029302 (Accessed Jun 21, 2017). 2. Shively S, Scher AI, Perl DP and Diaz-Arrastia R. Dementia resulting from traumatic brain injury: What is the pathology? Arch Neurol 2012;69:1245-1251.  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diseases and Conditions. Traumatic Brain Injury and Concussion. Basic Information. Available at:https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/basics.html (Accessed Jun 21, 2017).  4. Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s &Dementia. Traumatic Brain Injury. Available at:http://www.alz.org/dementia/traumatic-brain-injury-head-trauma-symptoms.asp (Accessed Jun 21, 2017).  5. ​Brain Injury Association of America. About Brain Injury. Available at:http://www.biausa.org/about-brain-injury.htm (Accessed Jun 21, 2017).

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when an external mechanical force causes a disruption in the normal function of the brain  . It is a serious public health problem in modern societies, primarily as a consequence of traffic accidents and falls. In young children and elderly individuals, falls are the primary cause of TBI hospitalizations and deaths, while traffic accidents are the primary cause in adolescents and young adults  .

The severity of TBI is commonly described as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild TBI, also known as a concussion, is a brief change in mental status or consciousness, while severe TBI is an extended period of unconsciousness (coma) or memory loss after the injury   . But regardless of the severity, all TBIs are serious and need medical attention  .





The above information is for your reference only. It cannot be used in place of a consultation with a medical professional nor as a basis of self-diagnosis or for treatment decision. Only your physician can provide you with accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.