What is a major cause of acquired brain injury in children?

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant cause of acquired brain injury in children. TBI often results from falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports-related injuries, or physical violence, which are common occurrences in the pediatric population. The developing brain of a child is particularly vulnerable to the effects of trauma, making TBI a leading contributor to long-term neurological complications and disability.

In contrast, while oxygen deprivation, infections, and stroke can also lead to acquired brain injuries, they do not have the same prevalence as traumatic brain injuries in childhood. Oxygen deprivation might occur due to near-drowning or severe asthma attacks but is less frequent than TBIs. Infections, such as meningitis, can indeed cause brain damage, but they are less common in comparison to the incidence of TBIs. Stroke in children, though it can happen, is much rarer than TBIs. Thus, in terms of frequency and impact on the pediatric population, TBI stands out as a major cause of acquired brain injury.