North Carolina Neurological Foundation (NCNF)

Major Neurocognitive Disorder Due To Traumatic Brain Injury

Major neurocognitive disorder due to traumatic brain injury results from significant brain trauma causing persistent cognitive deficits. Etiology includes closed or penetrating head injuries, diffuse axonal injury, hypoxic-ischemic insult, and secondary complications. Clinically, patients present with memory impairment, executive dysfunction, attention deficits, emotional lability, and functional limitations. Diagnosis is based on neuroimaging, cognitive testing, and functional assessment. Management focuses on cognitive rehabilitation, pharmacotherapy for associated neuropsychiatric symptoms, vocational and occupational therapy, and long-term supportive care.