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Published on: September 27, 2020
Traumatic brain injury: Comparison between autopsy and ante-mortem CT
Stephanie Panzer1, Lidia Covaliov2, Peter Augat3
1Department of Radiology, Trauma Center Murnau, Prof.-Küntscher-Straße 8, D-82418 Murnau, Germany; Institute of Biomechanics, Trauma Center Murnau and Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Prof.-Küntscher-Straße 8, D-82418 Murnau, Germany.
Computed tomography (CT) accurately identifies traumatic brain injury (TBI) findings compared to autopsy. Serial CT scans reveal significant changes in severe TBI cases, aiding autopsy interpretation.
Area of Science:
- Forensic medicine
- Radiology
- Neuropathology
Background:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) necessitates accurate pathological assessment.
- Ante-mortem computed tomography (CT) is a crucial diagnostic tool in TBI management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare pathological findings of TBI between autopsy and ante-mortem CT.
- To evaluate changes in TBI findings from initial to final CT scans before death.
Main Methods:
- 45 TBI patients with ante-mortem CT and autopsy data were analyzed.
- Brain slices were examined post-autopsy without fixation.
- CT findings were compared with autopsy results and across serial CT scans.
Main Results:
- CT demonstrated high specificity (≥80%) for most TBI findings compared to autopsy.
- Sensitivity and positive predictive value were high (≥80%) for nearly half of the findings.
- Significant changes in TBI findings were observed between initial and final CT scans, particularly in severe cases.
Conclusions:
- Ante-mortem CT findings are comparable to autopsy for main TBI pathologies.
- Serial CT scans effectively track TBI evolution, especially in severe injuries.
- Integrating ante-mortem CT into autopsy interpretation enhances diagnostic accuracy.
