Profile Analysis of the Neurobehavioral and Psychiatric Symptoms Following Combat-Related Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Identification of Subtypes. Issue 1 (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bailie, Jason M.; Kennedy, Jan E.; French, Louis M.; Marshall, Kathryn; Prokhorenko, Olga; Asmussen, Sarah; Reid, Matthew W.; Qashu, Felicia; Brickell, Tracey A.; Lange, Rael T.
• Other Names: Caplan Bruce section editor.; Bogner Jennifer section editor.; Brenner Lisa section editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of head trauma rehabilitation. Volume 31:Issue 1(2016:Jan./Feb.)
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: cluster analysis -- mild traumatic brain injury -- military -- postconcussive symptoms; Brain damage -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Brain damage -- Periodicals; 617.4810443
• DOI: 10.1097/HTR.0000000000000142
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0885-9701

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To explore the taxonomy of combat-related mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) based on symptom patterns. Participants: Up to 1341 military personnel who experienced a combat-related mTBI within 2 years of evaluation. Measures: Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory and PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C). Results: Cluster analysis revealed the following 4 subtypes: primarily psychiatric (posttraumatic stress disorder) group, a cognitive group, a mixed symptom group, and a good recovery group. The posttraumatic stress disorder cluster (21.9% of the sample) reported symptoms related to hyperarousal and dissociation/depression with few complaints related to cognition or headaches. The cognitive group (21.5% of the sample) had primarily cognitive and headache complaints with few mood symptoms. The mixed profile cluster included 18.6% of the sample and was characterized by a combination of mood complaints (hyperarousal and dissociation/depression), cognitive complaints, and headaches. The largest cluster (37.8% of the sample) had an overall low symptom profile and was labeled the "good recovery" group. Conclusions: The results support a unique taxonomy for combat-related mTBI. The clinical differences among these subtypes indicate a need for unique treatment resources and programs.