Differences in Brain Entropy and Cognitive Function Between Mild TBI Patients and Healthy Controls: A Longitudinal Perspective

Motivation: Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) often leads to long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Resting-state fMRI studies have shown functional brain changes in mTBI, but a comprehensive understanding of brain alterations remains limited. Goal(s): This study aims to examine brain entropy (BEN) in mTBI patients over time, exploring its potential association with neurocognition and recovery. Approach: Using longitudinal rs-fMRI data, we assessed BEN —a novel metric linked to brain function and pathology —in mTBI patients, analyzing changes from the acute to chronic phases. Results: Our preliminary results suggest increased BEN during the acute phase of mTBI, with normalization as cognitive function improves over time. Impact: This study positions brain entropy (BEN) as a potential biomarker for tracking recovery in mTBI. BEN's sensitivity to acute functional changes and its normalization with cognitive improvement could enhance diagnostic precision and inform therapeutic interventions in mTBI management.