CCRN Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Guide for Test Prep

Question: 1 / 400

What imaging findings are common in patients with diffuse axonal injury?

Visible hemorrhage in the CT scan

Localized mass lesions

Shearing of brain tissue on MRI

In diffuse axonal injury (DAI), the hallmark imaging findings are characterized by shearing of brain tissue. This type of injury results from acceleration-deceleration forces, causing widespread damage to axons throughout the brain. When evaluated using MRI, one can observe specific patterns indicative of DAI, such as lesions in the white matter and at the junctions of gray and white matter, which are not typically seen on CT scans.

MRI is particularly sensitive in detecting the microstructural changes and subtle areas of injury, including the presence of small lesions caused by disrupted axonal integrity. Recognizing these sheared axons is crucial, as it aids in diagnosing the extent of the injury and informing prognosis. Thus, the identification of shearing on MRI is a key finding in patients suspected of having diffuse axonal injury.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Calcifications in the basal ganglia

Next Question

Report this question

Download Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy