Psychological Sequelae of Head Injuries: Is Amnesia for the Event a Protective Factor in Developing Post-traumatic Stress Disorder? and Research Portfolio

Background: There is controversy as to whether PTSD can develop following a brain injury with a loss of consciousness. However, few studies have taken into account the extent of the actual amnesia for the event. Aims: To consider how amnesia for the traumatic event effects the development and profile of traumatic stress symptoms. Method: 1500 case records from an accident and emergency department were screened to identify 371 individuals with traumatic brain injury to be invited to complete questionnaires. 53 responses were included in the study. Groups were compared with no memory (n=14), untraumatic memories (n=13) and traumatic memories (n=26) for traumatic stress symptoms as measured by the IES-R. A structured interview (CAPS-DX) was used to determine caseness and provide details of symptom profile. Results: Groups with no memories or traumatic memories of the index event reported higher levels psychological distress than the group with untraumatic memories. Prevalence of PTSD in the entire cohort was 17-27%. Ratings of PTSD symptoms were less severe in the no memory group compared to those with traumatic memories. Conclusions: Psychological distress was associated with having traumatic or no memories of an index event. Amnesia for the event did not protect against PTSD, however, it does appear to protect against the severity and presence of specific intrusive symptoms