Cognitive Impairment Associated With Major Depression Following Mild and Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and major depression are neuropsychiatric conditions that have been associated with cognitive dysfunction. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between major depression and cognitive impairment following mild and moderate TBI. Seventy-four TBI patients were assessed for the presence of major depression using the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-IV and completed a neurocognitive assessment battery. Subjects with major depression (28.4%), compared to those without, were found to have significantly lower scores on measures of working memory, processing speed, verbal memory and executive function. Potential mechanisms and implications for treatment are discussed.

Neuropsychological outcome and its correlates in the first year after adult mild traumatic brain injury: A population-based New Zealand study

“…In a systematic review of meta analyses on the cognitive sequelae of mild TBI [14] it was concluded that studies had consistently identified adverse cognitive effects that were acute and rapid to resolve, with executive functioning appearing to be the most sensitive. Cognitive dysfunction after TBI may be increased by the presence of depression [15][16][17][18]. Depression after mild TBI is also associated with self-reported increases in the number and perceived severity of other post-concussion symptoms including headache, dizziness and blurred vision [19], as well as anger, aggression and suicidality [17,18,20,21].…”

“…Cognitive dysfunction after TBI may be increased by the presence of depression [15][16][17][18]. Depression after mild TBI is also associated with self-reported increases in the number and perceived severity of other post-concussion symptoms including headache, dizziness and blurred vision [19], as well as anger, aggression and suicidality [17,18,20,21]. In a review of the evidence for depression and depressive symptoms after mild TBI, it was found that the literature was consistent in reporting prevalence rates of at least 35% [22].…”

Emotional response to sport concussion compared to ACL injury

“…Such findings are typically found in patients with major depressive disorder [16]. Depression increases the likelihood of anger, aggression, the risk of suicide and cognitive dysfunction following TBI [17][18][19]. Depression has also been identified as a possible long-term consequence of concussion in athletes by a large retrospective study.…”

Association of Depressive Symptoms With Functional Outcome After Traumatic Brain Injury

“…Depression after TBI negatively influences cognition10-12, executive function 12-14, psychosocial function 11, 13, employment 15,16, social and recreational activities 10, 13, 17-20, social roles7, 11, and functional outcomes10, 15, 19, 21-23. Those with post-TBI depression perceive their own injury and outcome to be worse17.…”