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Diffuse axonal injury in adults

The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals, Centre for Anaesthesia, University College London, UK, martin.smith{at}uclh.org

Diffuse axonal injury is a frequent component of traumatic brain injury that contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. It encompasses a spectrum of injury from mild concussion to deep coma and death. There have been advances in our understanding of the pathophysiological processes that occur after diffuse axonal injury and ionic, immunological and genetic factors all play a role. Improvements in imaging techniques will allow more accurate diagnosis of diffuse injury in the acute phase and greater understanding of the complex pathophysiology might assist in the development of rational and specific therapies. Identification of genetic factors might also allow identification of high-risk patients who would benefit from targeted neuroprotective strategies.

Key Words: diffuse axonal injury • neuroprotection • outcome • traumatic brain injury

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