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Definition, Diagnosis, and Forensic Implications of Postconcussional Syndrome

Received March 1, 2004; revision received July 1, 2004; accepted July 28, 2004. From the Department of Medicine, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore; and the Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida. Address correspondence and reprint requests to Richard C.W. Hall, M.D., Courtesy Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Suite 210, 100 East Sybelia Ave., Maitland, FL 32751; dr.rcwhall{at}worldnet.att.net (e-mail).

Injuries from blows to the head often are manifested only as subjective complaints. Postconcussional syndrome thus can be feigned for financial or psychological gain. The authors review the pathology of brain trauma, symptoms of postconcussional syndrome, and criteria for diagnosis. In addition to somatic deficits, psychological and cognitive problems are common. The likelihood and severity of postconcussional syndrome are greater for women. Malingering may be suspected in cases involving litigation, and tests to detect it are available. Treatment for postconcussional syndrome depends on the specific symptoms. Pharmacotherapies may be helpful, but care should be used in prescribing drugs that could produce deleterious CNS effects.

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				J. Carr Postconcussion syndrome: a review Trauma, January 1, 2007; 9(1): 21 - 27. [Abstract] [PDF]

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