Construction of cognitive domains in patients with traumatic brain injury

Aim. Cognitive impairments represent a major problem in the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, few studies have investigated the construction of cognitive domains in patients with TBI. The purpose of this study was to examine the cognitive structure in TBI in naturalistic clinical settings. Methods. We assessed neuropsychologically 162 patients with mild to severe TBI within 3 years after injury. Results. Principal factor analysis using varimax rotation was conducted, yielding four factors (global cognitive ability, visual memory and visuospatial skills, verbal memory, and executive function) that accounted for 56.8% of variances. The cognitive domains we found were supported the on the basis of theoretical and practical consideration. The weak correlation between injury severity, assessed by Glasgow coma scale, and factor 1 "global cognitive ability" and factor 2 "visual memory and visuospatial skills". Conclusion. The cognitive domains of TBI patients were constructed only four factors. Our results may help in devising treatments and rehabilitation for cognitive dysfunction following TBI.