Related Experiment Videos
Postconcussive symptoms in children with mild closed head injuries
K O Yeates1, J Luria, H Bartkowski
1Department of Pediatrics The Ohio State University, Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
The Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation
|July 17, 1999
Summary
Post-injury increases in postconcussive symptoms (PCS) affect 35% of children with mild closed head injuries (CHI). These increases are linked to pre-existing vulnerabilities and later neurobehavioral declines.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Neuropsychology
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Mild closed head injuries (CHI) can lead to persistent postconcussive symptoms (PCS) in children.
- Understanding the incidence and correlates of PCS is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of PCS in children following mild CHI.
- To investigate the neuropsychological, behavioral, and neuroimaging factors associated with PCS.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 26 children (8-15 years) with mild CHI and 8 siblings.
- Assessments at baseline and 3 months included parent ratings of PCS, motivation, and behavior, plus child neuropsychological testing and MRI for CHI group.
Main Results:
- 35% of children with mild CHI showed increased PCS at 3 months compared to baseline, unlike siblings.
- Increased PCS correlated with poorer baseline neuropsychological function and decreased motivation over time.
- Smaller white matter volumes were noted in CHI group at baseline, suggesting pre-existing differences.
Conclusions:
- Postinjury PCS increases are common in a minority of children with mild CHI.
- These increases are associated with premorbid vulnerabilities and postinjury neurobehavioral changes.