Exam 2: Concussion Flashcards
What are the 4 diagnostic criteria for a concussion?
- GCS score of 13-15
- Loss of consciousness < 30 min
- Post Traumatic Amnesia < 24 hrs
- Lack of acute abnormalities on CT and MRI
What diagnostic imaging will show signs of concussion?
fMRI, blood flow, metabolic imaging
What percentage of concussions are associated with loss of consciousness?
< 10%
What is the pathophysiology associated with concussion?
- Disruption to neuronal circuits
- Dysregulation of K/Na pump
- Increased cerebral metabolism
- Decreased cerebral blood flow
- Increased glutamate
What are the 4 domains of concussion symptoms?
- Cervical musculature
- Vestibulo-ocular
- Autonomic dysfunction and exertional intolerance
- Motor function
What symptoms are considered to be cervical musculature impairments?
Neck pain, dizziness, impaired postural control, limited proprioceptive input
What symptoms are considered to be vestibulo-ocular impairments?
Vertigo, blurred vision, light sensitivity, headaches, sensitivity to sound, balance impairments, fatigue, tinnitus
What symptoms are considered to be autonomic dysfunction and exertional intolerance?
Poor autonomic regulation: inability to regulate HR, BP, cerebral blood flow in response to exercise and positional changes
Symptoms: pounding headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea
What symptoms are considered to be motor function impairments?
Impaired postural control, motor coordination, motor abilities with dual task, increased reaction time, increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries
How long until symptoms of a concussion typically resolve?
7-10 days
What does PPCS stand for?
Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms
What percentage of people with a concussion will present with PPCS?
10-20%
After what time period are concussion symptoms considered PPCS in children?
Symptoms after 4 weeks
After what time period are concussion symptoms considered PPCS in adults?
Symptoms after 14 days
What are indications for a slow recovery from a concussion?
Young age, female, prior concussion history, migraine history, history of depression and anxiety, ADHD, genetic factors, psychosocial factors
What are injury related indications for a slow recovery from a concussion?
Post traumatic amnesia, loss of consciousness, delayed removal from sport
What is Second Impact Syndrome?
A second concussion before a patient has fully recovered from the first than can have devastative effects
What is the pathophysiology of Second Impact Syndrome?
Cerebral edema and cerebral metabolism have not returned to baseline. Brain is unable to regulate pressures that results in rapid accumulation of edema and brain herniation
What does CTE stand for?
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
What is CTE?
A progressive degenerative disease associated with repetitive mild brain injury
What are some conditions that professional athletes are at a higher risk for?
ALS, Parkinson’s, Alzheimers, dementia
What is involved in pre-participation testing for concussion?
Medical and family history, full neurologic assessment, SCAT6, SMHAT, ImPACT
What does the ImPACT assess?
Attention, working memory, response variability, reaction time, problem solving
What is part of the immediate screening for a concussion?
Screen for multiple-system involvement, cervical spine pathology, identify if there is a moderate or severe brain injury, administer medical attention