Correlação entre copeptina sérica e desempenho em memória de trabalho no traumatismo cranioencefálico leve: um estudo exploratório

Abstract

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a common neurological condition that can cause significant cognitive deficits, even in the absence of structural changes detectable by conventional imaging exams such as computed tomography. The study of biomarkers in mTBI is essential for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of injury, aiding in early diagnosis, and guiding interventions that may improve patient clinical outcomes. This study primarily aimed to investigate the correlation between serum copeptin levels and working memory performance in patients with mild TBI. It is a longitudinal study conducted with 23 patients treated at the João XXIII emergency hospital within 24 hours after mild TBI, followed for 30 days, with blood sample collection and neuropsychological testing. Serum copeptin levels were measured using the ELISA immunoenzymatic assay, and neuropsychological tests, including the Digit Span test in both forward and backward orders, were performed to assess working memory performance. Data were compared to a control group (n=19) of healthy individuals recruited from the community and matched by sex and age with the patients. The results indicated a progressive increase in copeptin levels from 24 hours to 30 days after the trauma, suggesting an ongoing pathophysiological role associated with brain injury. However, no significant correlations were observed between elevated copeptin levels and changes in working memory. It is concluded that copeptin measurement may contribute to a better understanding of the progression of mild TBI, supporting future investigations and interventions that promote more effective rehabilitation for affected patients.