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A New Risk Factor for Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Liis Sabre1,2, Jaanus Harro3, Diva Eensoo4
11 Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu , Tartu, Estonia .
Journal of Neurotrauma
|April 14, 2016
Summary
Individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) exhibit lower monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity and higher impulsivity. These factors, particularly low MAO and high impulsivity, are identified as significant risk factors for TSCI, aiding in prevention.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
- Traumatology
Background:
- Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) is linked to behavioral issues like violence and impulsivity.
- These behaviors correlate with reduced neuronal serotonergic capacity, indicated by lower monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and characterize platelet MAO activity and impulsivity levels in individuals with TSCI.
- To compare these factors between TSCI patients and a matched control group.
Main Methods:
- Study included 93 TSCI patients and 93 age/gender-matched controls.
- Platelet MAO activity was measured using radioenzymatic assay.
- Impulsivity was assessed via the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11).
Main Results:
- TSCI patients displayed significantly lower platelet MAO activity compared to controls (p < 0.0001).
- TSCI patients reported significantly higher impulsivity scores on the BIS-11 (p = 0.0001).
- Alcohol use and smoking status did not significantly alter these findings.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with TSCI demonstrate both reduced platelet MAO activity and increased impulsivity.
- Low MAO activity and high impulsivity are identified as crucial risk factors for TSCI.
- These findings suggest potential for predictive value in risk assessment and preventive strategies for TSCI.
