Neuroimaging in repetitive brain trauma

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Radiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Sports-related concussions are a leading cause of mild traumatic brain injury.
• Repetitive brain trauma (RBT) increases the risk of developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
• CTE is primarily diagnosed post-mortem, necessitating improved in vivo diagnostic methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advanced neuroimaging methods for investigating RBT.
• To focus on neuroimaging in athletes and soldiers susceptible to RBT.
• To explore the potential of neuroimaging for early CTE diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)
• Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS)
• Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)
• Susceptibility Weighted Imaging (SWI)
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

Main Results:

• While direct in vivo detection of CTE remains elusive, these advanced neuroimaging methods offer insights into RBT.
• Existing literature demonstrates the utility of these techniques in general brain injury.
• The review specifically highlights their application in populations at risk for RBT.

Conclusions:

• Advanced neuroimaging techniques are crucial for understanding the pathophysiology of RBT.
• These methods hold significant potential for improving the in vivo characterization and diagnosis of CTE.
• Future research utilizing these techniques may surpass self-report measures for CTE assessment.