Experimental traumatic brain injury does not lead to lung infection

J Neuroimmunol. 2020 Jun 15:343:577239. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577239. Epub 2020 Apr 9.

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients often experience post-traumatic infections, especially in the lung. Pulmonary infection is associated with unfavorable outcomes and increased mortality rates in TBI patients; however, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms is poor. Here we used a lateral fluid percussion injury (LFPI) model in rats to investigate whether TBI could lead to spontaneous lung infection. Analysis of bacterial load in lung tissue indicated no occurrence of spontaneous lung infection at 24 h, 48 h, and 7 d following LFPI. This may suggest that exogenous infectious agents play a crucial role in post-TBI infection in patients.

Keywords: Lower respiratory tract infection; Pneumonia; Pulmonary infection; Spleen; TBI.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic / complications*
  • Male
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Respiratory Tract Infections*