Application of functional magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosing blast-related traumatic brain injuries

This updated review examines the use of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for diagnosing blast-related traumatic brain injury (bTBI). In the past ten years, significant advancements have been made in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying bTBI, which is increasingly prevalent among both soldiers and civilians affected by war conflicts. This review summarises key findings from recent bTBI publications, highlighting new evidence regarding the mechanisms, recovery, and diagnostic approaches associated with this condition. It provides a comprehensive overview of the fMRI techniques currently employed to investigate mental processes commonly disrupted by bTBI, such as working memory, selective attention, and emotional processing. Additionally, the review addresses the limitations of fMRI as a diagnostic tool, including issues related to sensitivity and specificity. Finally, it discusses the potential applications of this research in clinical settings, emphasising the need for improved diagnostic methods to better identify and treat individuals suffering from the effects of bTBI.