Causes of CNSérintettség are varied. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) from falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries is a leading source, as is spinal cord injury (SCI) resulting from penetrating trauma or compression. Non-traumatic origins include ischemic stroke, infectious meningitis or encephalitis, neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, and toxic or metabolic conditions such as hypoxia or electrolyte imbalance. Genetic predispositions, such as certain leukodystrophies, can also manifest as CNSérintettség.
Clinical presentation depends on the location and extent of the damage. Patients may exhibit motor deficits, sensory loss, cognitive impairment, autonomic dysfunction, or seizures. In spinal injuries, the level of injury determines whether deficits are ascending (non-ambulatory) or descending (ambulatory but with sensory loss in specific dermatomes). Diagnostic evaluation involves neurological examination, neuroimaging (MRI or CT), electrophysiological studies, and serum biomarkers, when available.
Treatment strategies aim to stabilize the patient, limit secondary injury, and promote functional recovery. For traumatic injuries, rapid airway management, control of intracranial pressure, and surgical decompression are critical. Pharmacological agents include steroids for acute spinal cord compression and antiepileptic drugs if seizures occur. Rehabilitative interventions—physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support—are central to restoring independence. Emerging therapies in research encompass neuroregenerative trials, stem cell transplantation, and advanced neuroprosthetic devices.
Epidemiologically, CNSérintettség contributes substantially to long-term disability worldwide. In Hungary, national registries report a prevalence of approximately 150 per 100,000 population, with children and adolescents experiencing roughly 60% of all traumatic cases, while adults account for 40% of infections and vascular lesions. Global estimates suggest around 10 million individuals live with complications of CNS injury, with mortality rates variable by region and healthcare access.
Current research priorities focus on precision medicine approaches, biomarkers for early diagnosis, and optimizing neuroplasticity in rehabilitation protocols. Collaborative initiatives between Hungarian medical institutions and European partners aim to refine outcome metrics and streamline patient-care pathways.