Factors influencing TBI recovery

Abstract

This paper explores the complex interplay of age, pre-existing health conditions (PECs), and molecular mechanisms in determining traumatic brain injury (TBI) recovery outcomes. TBIs affect millions annually in the United States, leading to significant long-term disability and mortality. Age is a crucial factor, with studies showing that older patients face worse prognoses due to biological aging and possible treatment biases that reduce care intensity. PECs, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders, exacerbate TBI severity by adding physiological stress, thereby worsening recovery trajectories. At the cellular and molecular level, disruptions such as oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and impaired neuroplasticity further compound these challenges. The paper also identifies limitations in the current research, including a tendency to study these factors in isolation, which can overlook their interactive effects on patient outcomes. By synthesizing findings across clinical, molecular, and systemic dimensions, this review highlights the urgent need for integrated, personalized treatment strategies that consider age, PECs, and biological mechanisms to improve TBI patient outcomes. As the global population ages and chronic health conditions become more prevalent, addressing these research gaps is essential to optimize recovery strategies and enhance the quality of life for TBI survivors.