Blast-associated traumatic brain injury in the military as a potential trigger for dementia and chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

Abstract

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) resulting from blast exposures have significantly affected US military personnel throughout the world, particularly in Iraq and Afghanistan. From 2000-2016, more than 350,000 military service members were diagnosed with a TBI. Since the majority of blast-related TBIs are classified as mild with no definitive findings on physical examination or diagnostic studies, it is difficult to accurately diagnose individuals inflicted with such injuries. There are likely far more mild TBIs that remain undiagnosed in the military. Traumatic brain injury is a serious public health concern since it can lead to long-term neuropsychiatric changes such as posttraumatic stress disorder and various forms of dementia. Blast-related TBI has also been linked with neuropsychiatric dysfunction that is commonly seen in athletes that have suffered chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Further research is needed to aid in prevention, diagnostic studies, and care of military service members and veterans who have suffered a TBI.