Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi 2009 , Vol 19 , Num 2
Head Trauma and Melatonin
Çağatay ÖZDÖL, Deniz BELEN
Ankara Numune Hastanesi, Beyin Cerrahi Kliniği, Ankara, Türkiye Head trauma is one of the most frequently encountered problem in emergency units, it constitutes 2 to 4% of all deaths and 50% of trauma associated deaths. Melatonin is synthesized from tryptophan in pineal gland, has a diurnal secretion pattern, its synthesis is induced by darkness and light suppresses its secretion. In patients with head trauma, levels of melatonin are closely related with the severity of injury. Diurnal secretion is significantly disturbed in patients with low Glasgow Coma Score however no change in diurnal profile was observed if Glasgow Coma Score is high. As a neuroprotective agent and one of the most important hydroxyl radical scavangers, benefits of increased melatonin levels due to light suppression in nighttime and direct infusion of melatonin in head trauma patients during intensive care may support neurological recovery. Anahtar Kelimeler : Pineal gland, Melatonin, Head Trauma