Misdiagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder following severe traumatic brain injury

Background The incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after traumatic brain injury is unclear. One issue involves the validity of diagnosis using self-report questionnaires. Aims. To compare PTSD 'caseness' arising from questionnaire self-report and structured interview. Method. Participants (n = 34) with traumatic brain injury were recruited. Screening measures and self-report questionnaires were administered, followed by the structured interview. Results. Using questionnaires, 59% fulfilled criteria for PTSD on the Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale and 44% on the Impact of Events Scale, whereas using structured interview (Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale) only 3% were 'cases'. This discrepancy may arise from confusions between effects of PTSD and traumatic brain injury. Conclusions. After traumatic brain injury, PTSD self-report measures might be used for screening but not diagnosis. Declaration of Interest. None.