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Updated: Jul 27, 2025
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A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
Published on: December 8, 2014
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Neurocognitive Test Performance and Concussion-Like Symptom Reporting Among Adolescent Athletes With Self-Reported
Nathan E Cook1,2,3, Ila A Iverson4, Bruce Maxwell5
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
Summary
Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) showed some neurocognitive differences and reported more symptoms, particularly sensory sensitivities and mood changes. However, functional impairment was generally low, suggesting tailored concussion management is key.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and communication.
- Adolescents with ASD may experience unique challenges in cognitive functioning and symptom reporting.
- Understanding these differences is crucial for appropriate clinical management, especially in athletic populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate baseline neurocognitive functioning in adolescents who self-report autism.
- To analyze symptom reporting patterns in adolescents with self-reported autism.
- To compare these findings with neurotypical adolescents in a sports context.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, observational study of 60,751 adolescents undergoing preseason testing.
- Identified 425 students (0.7%) self-reporting an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis.
- Assessed cognitive function using Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) and symptoms via the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS).
Main Results:
- Significant differences in neurocognitive composites were observed between groups (p < .002), with small effect sizes generally.
- Boys with ASD showed notable differences in visual memory; girls with ASD showed differences in verbal memory and visual motor speed.
- Adolescents with ASD reported higher rates of various symptoms, including sensory sensitivities (noise, light), memory and concentration difficulties, and emotional/mood changes.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents with self-reported autism participating in organized sports generally exhibit low functional impairment.
- However, if a concussion occurs, these individuals may require more intensive clinical management for optimal recovery.
- This highlights the need for individualized concussion protocols considering neurodevelopmental differences.
