The earliest manifestation of increased intracranial pressure following head injury is: (A) Ipsilateral pupillary dilatation, (B) Contralateral pupillary dilation, (C) Altered mental status, (D) Hemiparesis
Answer is C. • Early signs of elevated ICP includes drowsiness and a diminished level of consciousness.
• Coma and unilateral papillary changes are late signs and require immediate intervention.