Nontraumatic brain injury (NTBI) is a broad category of brain disorders not resulting from traumatic forces. Included in this category are acquired brain injuries resulting from ischemic cerebrovascular disease, infection, neoplasm, and autoimmune disorders ( Table 53.1 ). These pathologies result in impairments of physical function, cognition, language, and behavior. Evaluation for these disorders includes comprehensive history and physicals with symptomatology dependent on location of lesion and degree of injury/inflammation ( Table 53.2 ). Treatment involves supportive care, rehabilitation, and education in addition to addressing specific brain issues ( Table 53.3 ). In general, the NTBI population is an older demographic with more comorbidities that those with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Functional recovery after TBI tends to be better than after NTBI.
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Ischemia
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Focal ischemia is the most common stroke and is categorized into three types ( Table 53.4 ). Symptoms lasting less than 24 hours are transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and greater than 24 hours qualify as a stroke.
TABLE 53.4Ischemic Stroke ClassificationThrombotic Embolic Lacunar Large cerebral vessel occlusions Cardioembolic Smaller, arteriolar vessel occlusion Gradual onset, progressive symptoms; often preceded by transient ischemic attack Sudden in onset Presents suddenly or gradually Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel

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