Unusual Presentation of Diffuse Axonal Injury: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Trauma Research
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Diffuse axonal injury (DAI) is a severe traumatic brain injury affecting neural pathways.
• DAI is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
• Acute presentation typically lacks a lucid interval, showing abnormal pupillary response and abnormal posturing.

Observation:

• A case report details an 11-year-old girl involved in a high-risk, side-impact motor vehicle collision (MVC).
• The patient exhibited acute symptoms including agitation, crying, vomiting, a seizure episode, and poor communication.
• These symptoms are consistent with potential DAI following significant head trauma.

Findings:

• The case illustrates the acute neurological presentation of DAI in a pediatric patient post-MVC.
• Symptoms like agitation, vomiting, seizures, and impaired communication can indicate microscopic axonal damage.
• The severity of the MVC mechanism correlated with the observed acute neurological deficits.

Implications:

• Early recognition of DAI symptoms in pediatric trauma is crucial for timely intervention.
• Understanding DAI's presentation aids in diagnosing and managing severe traumatic brain injuries.
• This case underscores the importance of considering DAI in children following high-impact motor vehicle collisions.