[Minor Head Injury – a Silent Epidemic]

The vast majority out of the 20 000 patients annually hospitalized after sustaining a head injury belong to the minor head injury/cerebral concussion continuum. Fortunately, most of the patients show full recovery after days to weeks. However, about 15 % of these patients suffer from prolonged up to permanent sequels potentially impairing their quality of life to a considerable extent. This especially holds true for those who suffer from recurrent minor head injuries (i.e. victims from contact sport accidents). Unfortunately, many of these patients are never diagnosed in an appropriate way and therefore looked at as hypochondriacs or simulants. This prevents adequate rehabilitation and support. This review aims to present current knowledge about pathophysiology and clinical features of minor head injuries and to give some information about diagnostics and treatment according to current guidelines.