CC | Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI)

According to your sources, Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI) is widespread axonal damage caused by the physical forces of a mild, moderate, or severe traumatic brain injury (TBI)[1]. Physical Mechanism Traumatic Impact Forces: DAI occurs due to the tensile forces of trauma sustained during a head injury[1]. Cellular Progression: Rather than immediate shearing or tearing of the axon at the moment of impact, the trauma alters axonal functioning[1]. This leads to progressive axonal swelling and disconnection over a 12- to 24-hour period (or longer)[1]. Common Causes of Head Injuries & TBIs Because DAI is a generalized form of TBI resulting from traumatic impact, it stems from the common causes of head trauma[1][2]: Motor vehicle accidents (most common)[2] Falls (most common)[2] Sports-related trauma[2] Assaults[2] Firearms[2] Recreational injuries[2] War-related injuries