Role of antiplatelet therapy in the development of intracranial bleeding after mild traumatic brain injury

Introduction and objective: The use of antiplatelet agents is increasing, mainly in elderly patients in whom cranial trauma is a frequent reason for consultation to the emergency department. In this context, discordances have been described regarding the increased risk of post-traumatic injury that involves taking antiplatelet drugs. Therefore, the objective of this present study was to analyse factors associated with intracranial bleeding after mild brain trauma. Patients and methods: A retrospective study was designed that included all patients who had consulted the emergency department during 2016 because of mild brain trauma (Glasgow coma scale 14-15) and excluded patients under anticoagulant therapy. A logistic regression analysis was performed to analyse the variables associated with intracranial bleeding. Results: 566 patients were included in the study. 18% of them were taking antiplatelet drugs. Tomography showed haemorrhagic intracranial damage in 16.1%. Factors associated with intracranial bleeding were: advanced age, Glasgow coma scale < 15, high-energy trauma and antiplatelet therapy. Discussion: Antiplatelet therapy emerges as a risk factor for intracranial bleeding after mild head trauma, in addition to other known factors. (C) 2019 Elsevier Espaila, S.L.U. All rights reserved.