What can result from cerebral contusions?

Cerebral contusions are essentially bruises to the brain tissue, often resulting from blunt trauma to the head. One of the primary consequences of these injuries is the development of edema, or swelling, within the affected area. This swelling can cause increased intracranial pressure (ICP) as the brain space is limited by the rigid confines of the skull. When there is an increase in volume from edema, the brain cannot expand to accommodate it, thus leading to an increase in ICP.

Increased ICP is particularly concerning because it can lead to further complications such as compromised cerebral perfusion, herniation of brain tissue, and even death if not managed promptly. Hence, recognizing the potential for increased ICP is crucial in the management of any head injury, especially in cases involving cerebral contusions.

While other options refer to potential phenomena associated with head injuries, they do not accurately represent the typical outcomes of cerebral contusions in the same direct manner as increased ICP resulting from the associated swelling.