Serum Biomarkers in Paediatric Neurosurgery: Traumatic Brain Injury and Beyond

Benjamin J Hall1,2, Simon Abrams2, Michael J Griffiths3

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Alder Hey Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK.

Insights

Paediatric traumatic brain injury (pTBI) affects children globally, with mild cases being most common. Many mild TBIs show no radiological signs and are discharged without follow-up.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric neurology
  • Trauma research
  • Public health

Background:

  • Paediatric traumatic brain injury (pTBI) is a significant cause of childhood disability and mortality worldwide.
  • TBI incidence varies globally, with higher rates in males and common occurrences in infancy and adolescence.
  • Mild TBIs (mTBIs) constitute 75-90% of cases, often without clear radiological findings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the global impact and incidence of paediatric traumatic brain injury.
  • To discuss the common age groups affected by TBI in children.
  • To address the diagnostic challenges and follow-up care for mild TBIs in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of global incidence data for paediatric TBI.
  • Analysis of age-specific TBI prevalence peaks.
  • Examination of diagnostic characteristics of mild TBI cases.

Main Results:

  • TBI incidence ranges from 47 to 280 per 100,000 children.
  • Infancy (0-2 years) and adolescence (15-18 years) represent peak TBI incidence periods.
  • Most mild TBIs lack radiological evidence, leading to discharge without follow-up.

Conclusions:

  • Paediatric TBI is a widespread public health issue requiring attention.
  • Understanding TBI incidence patterns is crucial for targeted prevention and care.
  • The high prevalence of radiologically negative mild TBIs necessitates improved diagnostic and management strategies.