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11:32
A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
Published on: December 8, 2014
13.4K
Concussion is confusing us all
David J Sharp1, Peter O Jenkins1
1Computational, Cognitive, and Clinical Neuroimaging Laboratory, Division of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK.
Practical Neurology
|May 16, 2015
Summary
The term "concussion" lacks clear definition and pathological meaning, leading to problematic patient management. Researchers propose abandoning this term for precise traumatic brain injury diagnosis and symptom cause identification.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Traumatic Brain Injury Research
Background:
- The term "concussion" is historically used for brief, transient brain dysfunction after head injury.
- Current understanding assumes no long-term sequelae, despite variable symptom duration.
Observation:
- Concussion symptoms vary widely and can persist for years.
- Reliable early predictors for concussion outcomes are lacking.
- Vague terminology creates diagnostic biases and hinders scientific progress.
Findings:
- The term "concussion" lacks a clear definition and pathological basis.
- Existing terminology leads to misconceptions in diagnosis and patient care.
Implications:
- Advocates for abandoning the term "concussion" in clinical and scientific contexts.
- Recommends classifying traumatic brain injury severity and diagnosing specific causes of post-traumatic symptoms.
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