Alexiou PAVLINA1, Gabriela Elena CHELE2, Alin CIOBICA3,4,5 *, Fatima Zahra KAMAL6,7, Alin IORDACHE2, Gianina BERARU3, Cătălina IONESCU3,8,
Ioannis MAVROUDIS9
Abstract. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant global public health challenge, being the primary 28 cause of mortality and disability from trauma. This paper explores the intricate challenges and ethical considerations involved in diagnosing and managing Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) and neurocognitive impairments following a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This paper provides a systematic review of the ethical dimensions inherent in the PCS diagnosis, focusing on the delicate balance between beneficence and non-maleficence, as well as considerations of autonomy and justice. Through an extensive search of databases including Scopus, PubMed and Google Scholar accessed from 10-01-2024 to 16-03-2024, we gathered and synthesized peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and reputable sources related to PCS, TBI diagnosis, management strategies, and ethical considerations, resulting in a number of 122 sources. Our review regroups a wide range of studies and sources including, relevant literature, clinical studies, and other sources pertaining to Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) and neurocognitive impairments following traumatic brain injury (TBI) were examined and analyzed to gain a detailed understanding. Our results indicated that the accurate diagnosis is crucial in managing PCS and TBI for ethical patient care, balancing benefits and minimizing harm. However, the PCS symptoms variability and the lack of definitive diagnostic markers present significant bioethical concerns, impacting justice and patient autonomy. Despite these challenges, accurate diagnosis leads to tailored treatments, prevents unnecessary interventions, promotes faster recovery, and has significant economic and occupational benefits. It also enhances patient education and autonomy, underpinning effective management and optimizing recovery while minimizing broader impacts on patients’ lives. Conclusively, this paper advocates for a patient-centered, evidence-informed approach to PCS and TBI care, underscored by a commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and collaborative care.
Keywords: Post-Concussion Syndrome; brain injuries; traumatic; diagnosis; management; ethical considera-tions
DOI 10.56082/annalsarscibio.2025.2.160
1 Sigma-Pi Medicolegal, Leeds, UK
2 Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
3 Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași, Carol I Avenue, 20A, 700505 Iași, Romania,
4 Center of Biomedical Research, Romanian Academy, Iasi Branch, Teodor Codrescu 2, 700481 Iasi, Romania,
5 Academy of Romanian Scientists, 3 Ilfov, 050044 Bucharest, Romania, Preclinical Department, Apollonia University, 700511 Iasi, Romania
6 Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Processes, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan First University, B.P. 539, Settat 26000, Morocco
7 Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Technical (ISPITS), Marrakech, Morocco
8 “Ioan Haulica” Institute, Apollonia University, Pacurari Street 11, 700511 Iasi, Romania
9 Sigma-Pi Medicolegal, Leeds, UK, Department of Neuroscience, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, NHS Trust, UK
Corresponding author e-mail: alin.ciobica@uaic.ro
PUBLISHED in Annals Academy of Romanian Scientists Series on Biological Sciences, Volume 14 no 2, 2025