Endocrine Dysfunction following Traumatic Brain Injury in Children

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This study included a prospective evaluation of 31 children after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The researchers evaluated thyroid function, insulin-like growth factor I, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3, and cortisol at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after injury, and assessed prolactin at 3 and 6 months. At 6 months, they also assessed overnight growth hormone secretion, nocturnal thyrotropin surge, adrenal reserve, and serum and urine osmolarity.

The average patient age was 11.6 years, and mean Glascow Coma Scale score was 6.

The incidence of endocrine dysfunction was 15% at 1 month, 75% at 6 months, and 29% at 12 months.

At 12 months after injury, 14% had precocious puberty, 9% had hypothyroidism, and 5% had growth hormone deficiency.

Endocrine dysfunction after TBI is common in children, but most cases resolve by 1 year. The study authors recommended endocrine surveillance at both 6 and 12 months following moderate or severe TBI.

References:
Endocrine Dysfunction following Traumatic Brain Injury in Children, Volume 157, Issue 6, Pages 894-899 (December 2010).