Psychiatric outcomes and quality of life in adolescents with moderate traumatic brain injury: a 6-month follow-up study.

Introduction: There is limited evidence regarding the association between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the emergence of new-onset psychiatric disorders in adolescents. This prospective study analysed psychiatric disorders, quality of life, and emotional and behavioral difficulties in adolescents with TBI and orthopedic trauma at a 6-month follow-up.

Methods: Adolescents with TBI and a control orthopedic trauma group (without a history of psychiatric disorders) were evaluated using both the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory.

Results: Forty-one adolescents with TBI and 45 with orthopedic injuries were assessed. TBI patients had significantly lower quality of life and higher levels of emotional difficulties. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders was higher in the TBI group (41.5% vs 15.6%). TBI group had higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression after 6 months. Hospitalization length and GCS scores were correlated with quality of life outcomes. Regression analysis revealed the presence of psychiatric disorders at 6 months was a significant predictor of reduced quality of life.

Conclusion: This study highlights a significant association between TBI and poorer quality of life and mental health outcomes in adolescents. Adolescents with TBI had higher rates of psychiatric disorder, more pronounced emotional difficulties, and a lower quality of life.