Neurologic Injury-Related Predisposing Factors of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Critical Examination

Abstract

The present review aimed to identify the means through which neurologic injury can predispose individuals to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In recent years, comprehensive studies have helped to clarify which structures in the central nervous system can lead to distinct PTSD symptoms—namely, dissociative reactions or flashbacks—when damaged. Our review narrowed its focus to three common neurologic injuries, traumatic brain injury (TBI), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and stroke. We found that in each of the three cases, individuals may be at an increased risk of developing PTSD symptoms. Beyond discussing the potential mechanisms by which neurotrauma may lead to PTSD, we summarized our current understanding of the pathophysiology of the disorder and discussed predicted associations between the limbic system and PTSD. In particular, the effect of noradrenergic neuromodulatory signaling on the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis as it pertains to fear memory recall needs to be further explored to better understand its effects on limbic structures in PTSD patients. At present, altered limbic activity can be found in both neurotrauma and PTSD patients, suggesting a potential causative link. Particularly, changes in the function of the limbic system may be associated with characteristic symptoms of PTSD such as intrusive memories and acute psychological distress. Despite evidence demonstrating the correlation between neurotrauma and PTSD, a lack of PTSD prognosis exists in TBI, SAH, and stroke patients who could benefit from early treatment. It should be noted that PTSD symptoms often compound with pre-existing issues, further deteriorating health outcomes for these patients. It is ultimately our goal to clarify the relationship between neurotrauma and PTSD so that earlier diagnoses and appropriate treatment are observed in clinic.

The bibliometric and altmetric analysis of chronic traumatic encephalopathy research: how great is the impact?

“…The link between injuries, concussions, and CTE has become a major area of research in recent years, particularly in the context of professional sports. Furthermore, numerous studies indicated a correlation between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and demonstrated role of TBI in rendering individuals more susceptible to developing PTSD ( 32 , 33 ). Moreover, we also found that the pathology of CTE captured the attention of the general public and scientific community.…”

“…The accumulation of abnormal tau protein in the brain into neurofibrillary tangles is one of hallmarks of CTE ( 34 ). In addition to CTE, abnormal aggregation of tau protein also occurs in other neurodegenerative diseases like AD and dementia ( 32 , 35 ). They may differ in the location, morphology, and severity of aggregation ( 12 ).…”

Breath-Focused Mind-Body Therapy for Global Mental Health: War and Other Mass Disasters

“…Mind-body techniques have been shown to reduce the adverse effects of stress and trauma on child and adult survivors of war and other mass disasters [49][50][51][52] 1). Although in-person BBM studies have used standardized measures of anxiety, depression, and PTSD [13], online studies did not use PTSD test measures [55,56]. In trials, such as for RISE, as a government agency, the evaluators specifically avoided using tests that could be used to diagnose any psychological disorder in the employees.…”