Overview
Post-traumatic dementia with behavioral change (PTD-BC) refers to cognitive decline and behavioral alterations following traumatic brain injury, impacting daily functioning and quality of life 1.Diagnosis
Clinical evaluation focusing on cognitive deficits and behavioral changes post-injury 1.
Neuropsychological testing to assess specific cognitive domains affected 1.
Imaging studies (e.g., MRI) to identify structural brain changes 1.
Exclusion of other causes of dementia through laboratory tests and detailed history 1.Management
Psychosocial Support: Cognitive-behavioral therapy and supportive counseling for both patients and caregivers 1.
Medication: Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine) for severe behavioral disturbances, used cautiously due to side effects 1.
Multidisciplinary Approach: Involving neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers 1.
Caregiver Education and Support: Programs aimed at reducing caregiver burden and enhancing coping strategies 1.Special Populations
Caregivers: High caregiver burden noted; interventions focusing on social capital and family functioning recommended to mitigate stress 1.Key Recommendations
Implement multidisciplinary care teams to address cognitive and behavioral symptoms effectively (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Provide structured psychosocial support and counseling for both patients and caregivers to improve outcomes (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Use antipsychotics cautiously for behavioral disturbances, considering individual risk factors and benefits (Evidence: Weak 1).
Enhance social capital and family functioning interventions to reduce caregiver burden (Evidence: Moderate 1).References
1 Ni H, Liu Y, Yang J, Qin H, Hu Y, Deng H et al.. The association between caregiver burden, social capital, and family functioning among caregivers of older adults with PSD - A cross-sectional study. Psychology, health & medicine 2025. link