CNS Trauma and Hemorrhages

Question 1

Concussion

Answer 1

totally reversible, transient cerebral malfunction (may be associated with brief loss of consciousness or postural tone)

Question 2

Contusion

Answer 2

pathological finding of physiological damage (in this case to the brain)

Question 3

primary vs secondary injury in head trauma

Answer 3

primary - injury as a result of the event (fx, bleeding…etc)
secondary - injury that happens afterwards, but due to the event (swelling causing brainstem damage from herniation…etc)

Question 4

epidural hemorrhage

Answer 4

bleeding outside of the dura, usually associated with an arterial tear. fast onset and progression.

Question 5

subdural hemorrhage

Answer 5

between the brain and the dura, almost always venous leading to a slow bleed and slower duration. Can be caused by trivial events in the elderly.

Question 6

Diffuse axonal injury

Answer 6

widespread damage to axons within the CNS that results from severe acceleration or deceleration of the head (esp. rotational injury)

Question 7

Sequelae of diffuse axonal injury

Answer 7

most pts comatose after injury and remain that way until death

Question 8

Shaken Infant Syndrome

Answer 8

happens in infants who do not yet have neck muscle strength. often presents with coma or decreased GCS and retinal hemorrhages may be present