Which assessment tool is used to evaluate mild traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

The Military Acute Concussion Evaluation (MACE) is specifically designed to assess mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a context often relevant to military personnel, but it is also applicable in civilian settings. MACE provides a comprehensive evaluation that includes questions regarding symptoms, cognition, and balance, making it effective for assessing the subtle nuances of mild TBI. It is a structured tool that allows for systematic assessment and can help guide decisions regarding treatment and return to duty or activity.

In contrast, other tools like the Glasgow Coma Scale primarily focus on severe brain injuries and critical assessments of consciousness levels. A neurological exam is a broader evaluation used to assess overall brain function but does not specifically target mild TBI symptoms. The Head Injury Identification Test, while useful for identifying potential head injuries, lacks the targeted approach seen in MACE for evaluating mild TBI and may not provide the same detailed analysis of cognitive and functional impairments.